By Mukter Hossain from Harirampur, Manikganj
World Soil Day was observed in the char area of Lechraganj Union under Harirampur Upazila of Manikganj with the theme “Healthy Soil for a Healthy City.” The event was organized by the Lechraganj Farmers’ Organization at Patgram Char.
Speakers discussed about the causes of soil degradation and emphasized the actions farmers can take to preserve soil health. They said that to keep the soil healthy, farmers must become more aware. They said, “In the hope of higher yields, we are using excessive chemical fertilizers and toxins, which ultimately destroy soil health. The soil is not responsible for this damage. Therefore, we must take responsibility”. They further said that the ecosystems living on and within the soil must be protected, and highlighted the importance of using organic fertilizers to maintain ecological balance.
The discussion was presided over by Hazera Begum, President of the Lechraganj Char Development Farmers’ Organization. Among others who spoke were organization members Rina Karmakar, Akkas Hossain Molla, ALC farmer Ershad Munshi, and BARCIK Program Officer Hossain.
During the observance, different types of soil found in the char region such as sandy soil, loam, alluvial soil and clay were displayed. Local farmers have long cultivated various crops in these soil types to sustain their livelihoods. However, excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in recent years has been degrading soil quality.
