Clusters of ripe Ati litchis hanging from trees in Meherpur, signalling a bumper harvest and strong market demand. Photo: TIMES
Farmers and orchard owners in Meherpur are enjoying a profitable season as litchi prices rise following last year’s losses.
Favourable weather, abundant flower buds, and lower incidence of pests have raised expectations of a bumper litchi harvest this year. Early Ati litchis have already begun ripening in several orchards, and sales started this week. High demand from across Bangladesh has lifted spirits among orchard owners and traders.
Litchi gardens across Meherpur are now strikingly red with ripening fruit. Clusters of mature and semi-ripe litchis hang from tree branches, creating an almost artistic vista. Harvesting begins at dawn, with workers cutting bunches from higher branches while others collect, sort, and pack the fruit in plastic crates for shipment across the country.
Orchard owners report significantly better yields than last year. “Many trees suffered losses previously due to unfavourable weather, but this year fruit is abundant,” said orchard owner Zaker Ali. “Production could almost double compared to last year, and prices are good. I hope for a profitable season.”
Traders are equally pleased, noting that Meherpur’s Ati litchis are gaining a reputation for taste, sweetness, and quality nationwide. Fruit trader Abdul Kuddus said, “Buyers from various districts are coming to collect our litchis. Shipments are being sent daily to Dhaka, Cumilla, Barishal, Bogura and other regions.”
Ahsanul Haq, another trader, added, “Our litchis have a distinct reputation. Traders from across the country are contacting us every day. Demand is very strong.”
Continued losses in other crops have encouraged more farmers to cultivate fruit orchards. There is growing interest in both Ati and improved grafted litchi varieties, offering higher profits in smaller plots.
Litchi grower Azizul Haq said, “Other crops are not profitable like before, so I am now cultivating litchi. With proper care, one can earn well. On one bigha of land, investing Tk30,000–40,000 could yield sales of Tk100,000–150,000 this year.”
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) is advising farmers on safe practices, emphasising timely irrigation, pest management, and avoiding harmful chemicals to ensure safe fruit for consumers.
DAE Deputy Director Sanjib Mridha said, “We are guiding farmers to cultivate litchis safely, control pests, and avoid harmful chemicals, ensuring consumers get safe fruit while farmers profit.”
According to DAE, approximately 730 hectares in Meherpur have been planted with litchi this season, with an expected production of around 6,800 tonnes. If favourable weather continues, litchi could play a significant role in the district’s economy this year.
