Low production blamed
GORKHA, March 9: Farmers of Tanglichowk VDC are clearing their orange groves and preparing the land for new crop following consistent drop in orange production
Bhim Prasad Aryal of Tanglichowk-3 had earned Rs 200,000 by selling oranges grown in 150 trees last year. But he could earn only Rs 50,000 this year due to drop in orange production. “Though the price was better this year, I faced huge loss this year due to drop in production,” he added. “I could have earned more by cultivating other crops.”
He said orange trees in the village were drying due to unidentified disease.
Lamjung witnesses decline in orange production this year
Though Aryal had notified District Agricultural Office about the problem, he said technicians turned a deaf ear to his request for help. “We had to face huge loss, as we couldn’t get technical help in time,” he added. With the help of an expert, Aryal has started organic treatment on some orange trees. “I don’t know whether it works or not,” he added.
Not only Aryal, many other farmers in Tanglichowk are felling orange trees following outbreak of the disease which is turning their orange trees dry. Farmers say orange trees are drying up fast. Similarly, they yield smaller and fewer fruits. Many of them are planning to start vegetable farming after clearing their orange groves.
Officials of District Agriculture Office said they do not have sufficient fund and manpower to treat all orange trees. “Last year, we had provided treatment in groves spread over 50 hectares. We had fund to treat groves in only 20 hectares this year,” he added.
