10. Write a report on Betel Plantations Destroyed by Cyclone Mahasen

10. Write a report on Betel Plantations Destroyed by Cyclone Mahasen

Betel Plantations Destroyed by Cyclone Mahasen

Local Correspondent, The Daily Star

Barisal, May 21, 2013.

Betel Plantations (পান চাষ) in Barisal, Patuakhali and Barguna districts were damaged during the attack of cyclone Mahasen accompanied by tidal surges on May 16.

The damaged plantations include 864 acres of land in Patuakhali, 308 acres in Barisal. About 50,000 people are engaged in betel farming in three coastal districts. The climate and soil in these areas are very suitable. Betel plantations are good for profit. Most of the betel farmers take loans from the local NGOs.

Motaleb, a farmer of Galachipa upazilla, said that his betel garden was completely damaged. He feared how he could return his loan. Bibhuti, a farmer of Barguna told this reporter that his betel farm was the only source of income. He lost everything and now he is helpless. Sabbir, another farmer from Barisal, said he cultivated betel on 2 acres of land. He lost everything. He has three school- going children. He asked how he could maintain his family. Many other farmers in these areas have the similar tales to tell.