Published: 09:40 AM, 14 August 2026
Irrigation Is Being Seriously Obstructed by Poor Electric Supply in Villages
Irrigation, the lifeline of agriculture in Bangladesh, is being seriously obstructed by inadequate electricity supply in rural areas. Frequent load-shedding has left thousands of farmers unable to operate electric irrigation pumps regularly, putting crops at risk and increasing production costs.
The problem becomes particularly severe during the Boro season, when farmers depend heavily on irrigation to grow rice. In many villages, electricity remains unavailable for several hours at a stretch, often at critical times when crops need water. As a result, farmers cannot irrigate their fields on time, and crops may suffer from water shortages.
The situation forces many farmers to depend on diesel-powered pumps as an alternative. However, diesel is expensive, and the rising cost of fuel has increased the overall cost of cultivation. Small and marginal farmers are especially affected because they have limited financial resources. Many of them fear that increased irrigation costs may reduce their profits or even cause losses.
Frequent power cuts also create uncertainty in agricultural activities. Farmers often have to stay awake at night waiting for electricity to return so that they can operate irrigation pumps. This causes physical hardship and disrupts their normal lives. In some areas, farmers have to share limited pumping facilities, which further delays irrigation.
The consequences of delayed irrigation can be serious. Rice plants need sufficient water at different stages of growth. If water is not supplied at the right time, crop growth may be affected and production may decline. A fall in rice production could eventually create pressure on food prices and national food security.
The problem is not limited to agriculture. Poor electricity supply also affects village businesses, students, health services and household activities. Rural people often feel that they receive less reliable electricity than people living in urban areas.
The authorities should take immediate steps to improve electricity supply in villages. Special priority should be given to irrigation pumps during the crop-growing season. Damaged power lines and transformers should be repaired quickly, and the rural electricity distribution system should be strengthened.
At the same time, the government should encourage solar-powered irrigation systems as an alternative source of energy. Such systems can reduce dependence on both grid electricity and diesel.
Farmers are the backbone of Bangladesh's economy and food production. Ensuring a reliable electricity supply for irrigation is therefore essential not only for protecting farmers' livelihoods but also for maintaining food security and the overall development of the country.
