Natural disasters hit-hard Maidan Wardak orchards: Farmers

MAIDAN SHAHR (Pajhwok): Water shortage, unexpected rainfall and disasters related to climate change have affected orchards in central Maidan Wardak province, according to local farmers.

Orchard owners complained that the shortage of water, unexpected rainfall and disasters related to climate change have had a bad impact on their farms due to which the rates of fruits jumped in the market.

Hamdullah, a gardener from Chak District told Pajhwok Afghan News: “we’ll get less yield from our gardens due to water shortage, unexpected rainfall and cold weather”. He added that they will harvest half of the normal yield of apricots this year.”

Hasibullah, another farmer, said: “Despite the drought this year, we expect some harvest, but due to the climate change issues the quality as well the price of fruits are low.

Agriculture Director Mawlavi Safiullah said, acknowledged farmers complaints and said: “we have some priority plans for the upcoming year to dig some wells and create water-saving resources”.

He added that the ministry of agriculture and livestock promised to help the gardeners and explore the market for the products.

AW/nh

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