MOHANPUR: An unknown disease has struck rubber plantations across several areas under Mohanpur subdivision, causing leaves to turn red and yellow and fall prematurely, leading to a sharp decline in production. The problem has been most visible in Bamutia.
Following reports of the outbreak, experts from the Rubber Board inspected the affected plantations and issued remedial advice to farmers. However, growers in Bamutia’s Jalilpur area say they are struggling to implement the recommendations due to the high cost of prescribed pesticides and the practical difficulty of spraying tall trees.
In the absence of proper equipment, several farmers have pooled resources to purchase a machine, using bamboo poles to reach upper branches and apply pesticide manually.
The local former MLA visited the affected areas and assured farmers of assistance in resolving the crisis.
Growers pointed out that while drone-based spraying technology exists and could ease their burden significantly, they have no access to it. They have urged the Rubber Board and the state government to introduce drone facilities on an urgent basis.
It remains to be seen how soon authorities respond to the demand, as the disease continues to threaten livelihoods across the region’s rubber belt.