Farmers call for drought mitigation measures

NELLI (Pajhwok): Residents and farmers have voiced grave concern at severe drought in central Daikundi province.

They underlined the need for effective drought mitigation measures, asking the government to address the issue at the earliest possible.

Haji Khair Mohammad, one of the farmers in Neili, told Pajhwok Afghan News he was happy with the government’s handling of the security situation.

However, the officials concerned must also assist the drought-hit people, the grower demanded.

“Drought and unemployment are at their peak. We Neither have water to irrigate our crops nor food to eat,” he commented.

The grower complained he five sons — all jobless. The drought had forced them to open a shop, the man said.

According to him, the aid provided to the people was not enough. Worse still, he alleged, assistance was not delivered to the deserving people.

Syed Mohammad, another farmer from Keti district, is also currently running a shop in the provincial capital.

He said it had been two years that he had not harvested the wheat crop. His almond trees have also been harmed by drought.

Mohammad Noor Khalil, deputy governor, confirmed drought had taken a heavy toll on agriculture in the province.

He promised the local administration would address people’s problems. A special coordination committee has been set up to help the people of the province through relevant institutions.

sa/mud