Kunar walnut yield up, thanks to conducive weather

ASADABAD (Pajhwok): The Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock Department has announced a considerable increase in walnut yield in eastern Kunar province this year.

Tabiullah, an official of the department, told Pajhwok Afghan News walnut saplings planted in previous years gave an exceptionally good yield, 1,800 tonnes, reflecting a 20 percent increase over last year.

He said, "In many areas, newly planted walnut saplings have also give good yield this year. Favorable weather conditions have contributed to a significant rise in walnut harvests."

He added the market situation had improved this year, attracting numerous domestic and international buyers.

Narai, Ghaziabad, Dangam, Asmar, Shegal, Chapa Dara, Manogi, Watapur and Sawakai districts have both natural and cultivated walnut orchards.

Orchard owners are particularly pleased with their harvests this year.

Abdul Wahab, a resident of Dangam district, said with the support of the Agriculture Department, he had planted walnut saplings on over 12 acres of land, which yielded a substantial harvest this year.

He added, "Market prices for walnuts have been strong and favorable compared to previous years. Our orchards thrived this year due to increased seasonal rainfall, timely plant treatment and advice from the department to orchard owners."

According to the Agriculture and Livestock Department, Kunar province has approximately 1,500 hectares of walnut forests.

sa/mud