Farmers in Hatibandha, Lalmonirhat, blocked a major highway for nearly two hours on Sunday afternoon, 30 November, in protest over an acute shortage of fertiliser, causing a long traffic tailback. The farmers accused local dealers of refusing to provide fertiliser despite its availability, citing various excuses and claiming it was out of stock.
The protest took place outside the Messrs Morshed fertiliser outlet, adjacent to the Upazila Auditorium Hall, where farmers gathered to demand immediate supply. Hatibandha is predominantly a maize-producing area, with approximately 90 per cent of the local population relying on maize cultivation for their livelihood. The shortage of fertiliser has severely disrupted planting for maize, tobacco, paddy, and other crops, with farmers unable to commence cultivation at the start of the season.
According to the farmers, dealers sometimes sell fertiliser secretly at night while refusing access to ordinary farmers during the day. “How will we cultivate under such circumstances?” said farmer Momin. “When we approach the dealers, we are told it is unavailable. Fertiliser is being sold secretly at night, yet we are denied when we need it most.”
The blockade caused significant traffic congestion along the highway, affecting commuters and local transport services. Authorities were called in to resolve the situation, and after discussions with Hatibandha Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shamim Mia, the farmers agreed to lift the blockade following assurances that fertiliser would be supplied promptly.
Shamim Mia confirmed the resolution, stating, “Farmers blocked the road to demand fertiliser, but after discussion and assurance of supply, they withdrew the blockade peacefully.”
A summary of the incident is outlined below:
| Incident Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Messrs Morshed fertiliser outlet, Hatibandha, Lalmonirhat |
| Date & Time | Sunday, 30 November, afternoon |
| Duration of Highway Blockade | Approximately 2 hours |
| Main Demand | Immediate supply of fertiliser |
| Crop Impact | Maize, tobacco, paddy, and other crops |
| Resolution | Blockade lifted after UNO Shamim Mia’s assurance |
The incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by farmers in rural areas, where supply chain issues for essential agricultural inputs such as fertiliser can directly affect livelihoods. Local authorities have pledged to monitor distribution and ensure farmers receive the necessary resources in time for the cultivation season.