Published: 11:57 PM, 12 September 2026
Load Shedding Hits Hard Irrigation in Rural Areas
Load shedding has emerged as a serious threat to irrigation in rural areas of Bangladesh, causing widespread concern among farmers during the cultivation season. Frequent power cuts are disrupting the operation of irrigation pumps and increasing the cost of agricultural production. Farmers fear that prolonged electricity shortages may reduce crop yields and put additional pressure on food security.
Agriculture remains one of the main sources of livelihood for millions of people in Bangladesh. During the dry season, particularly in the cultivation of Boro rice, farmers depend heavily on irrigation to supply water to their fields. Most irrigation pumps in rural areas run on electricity. When power supply becomes irregular, farmers are often unable to provide water to their crops at the required time.
Farmers in many villages say that electricity cuts can continue for several hours a day. As a result, irrigation schedules are frequently disrupted. Some farmers are forced to wait until electricity is restored, while others use diesel-powered pumps as an alternative. However, diesel is expensive, and its increased use raises the overall cost of cultivation.
The situation is particularly difficult for small and marginal farmers. Many of them already struggle with the rising prices of fertiliser, seeds, pesticides, labour and agricultural machinery. Additional spending on diesel or private irrigation services can reduce their profits considerably. In some cases, farmers may even be forced to borrow money to keep their fields supplied with water.
Agricultural experts warn that timely irrigation is essential for achieving good production, especially during critical stages of crop growth. If crops do not receive adequate water, plants may become weak and yields may fall. A significant decline in rice production could eventually affect market prices and place an additional burden on low-income consumers. The problem also affects rural life beyond agriculture. Irrigation pump operators, local businesses and small industries depend on a reliable electricity supply. Frequent load shedding reduces economic activity and creates uncertainty in village communities. The government and electricity authorities should therefore give special priority to agricultural areas during the irrigation season. A reliable power supply for irrigation pumps can protect farmers from unnecessary financial losses and help maintain stable food production. Authorities should also ensure that electricity distribution is properly monitored and that rural areas receive their allocated supply fairly.
At the same time, investment in renewable energy, particularly solar-powered irrigation systems, could provide a long-term solution. Bangladesh has considerable potential for solar energy, and expanding solar irrigation could reduce farmers' dependence on the national power grid and costly diesel.
