Rajshahi s Mango Harvest Set for Record Yield Despite Early Heatwave

Rajshahi, the northwestern division of Bangladesh known as its succulent mangoes, is poised for a record-breaking harvest this season, according to local agricultural officials. Despite an early heatwave that raised concerns among farmers, the region’s orchards are expected to produce over 2.5 lakh metric tons of mangoes, surpassing last year’s yield by nearly 15 percent.

The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Rajshahi reported that favorable weather conditions during the flowering stage, combined with improved pest control measures, have contributed to the bumper crop. The district’s 25,000 hectares of mango orchards, spread across upazilas such as Bagha, Charghat, and Puthia, are now laden with fruit. Farmers like Abdul Karim of Bagha expressed cautious optimism. “We faced a sudden rise in temperature in March, but timely irrigation and advice from DAE officials saved the blossoms,” he said.

The early heatwave, which saw temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in April, initially threatened pollination. However, DAE deputy director Shamsul Haque noted that proactive measures, including canopy management and mulching, mitigated damage. “The heatwave actually helped reduce fungal infections, which are common during humid spells. This season, we’ve seen fewer cases of anthracnose,” he added.

Rajshahi’s mangoes are a staple of the national fruit market, with varieties like Langra, Himsagar, and Gopalbhog fetching premium prices. The city’s wholesale markets, including the iconic Shyampur Bazar, are already bustling with traders from Dhaka, Chittagong, and beyond. Prices for early varieties have started at Tk 80-100 per kilogram, slightly higher than last year, due to increased demand. However, officials expect prices to stabilize as the peak harvest begins in June.

The record yield also brings logistical challenges. The Rajshahi City Corporation has set up temporary collection points and cold storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses, which previously reached up to 20 percent. “We are working with the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute to ensure better grading and packaging,” said Mayor A.H.M. Khairuzzaman Liton. “Our goal is to help farmers get fair prices and reduce waste.”

Meanwhile, the mango season has sparked a mini economic boom in the region. Hotels and restaurants in Rajshahi report a surge in tourists from other districts, drawn by the annual “Mango Festival” organized by the district administration. The event, scheduled for mid-June, will feature exhibitions, seminars, and a fruit market. Local entrepreneur Fatima Begum, who runs a mango-based snack business, said, “This season, we’re expecting 30 percent more orders for mango pickles and juice. It’s a busy time for us.”

However, not all news is positive. The heatwave, which persisted for 10 days in April, has raised concerns about water scarcity in some areas. Farmers in Barind Tract, a drought-prone zone, have had to rely on groundwater irrigation. Environmentalists warn that over-extraction could lower the water table. “We need to promote drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting to sustain mango farming,” said Dr. M.A. Matin, a professor of agronomy at Rajshahi University.

Looking ahead, the DAE plans to introduce new varieties resistant to heat stress. Trials for hybrid mangoes from Thailand and the Philippines are underway at the Regional Agricultural Research Station in Ishwardi. “Climate change is a reality, and we must adapt,” said Haque. “This year’s success gives us confidence, but we cannot be complacent.”

For now, Rajshahi’s farmers are savoring the moment. As the sun sets over the Padma River, the scent of ripening mangoes fills the air—a testament to the region’s resilience and agricultural heritage.