RASC News Agency: Farmers in Dehdadi district, Balkh province, report that this year’s peach trees have been afflicted by both pest infestations and poor growth, resulting in reduced yields and diminished sales. The farmers attribute the decline in peach production to several factors, including the lack of chemical fertilizers, inadequate water supply, and the absence of pest control measures.
They also lament that the Taliban government has provided no assistance in addressing these issues. The peach harvest in Dehdadi district is significantly lower compared to previous years, according to the farmers. Nematullah, one of the farmers, said, “This year, the peaches are very small and are not growing as they used to. The yield is much less than in previous years.” Similarly, Naumanullah expressed his concerns: “There is a severe water shortage. When the peach trees needed water, there was none available. Now, we can’t even use fertilizer because it would damage the peaches.”
The lack of adequate water in Dehdadi district has forced farmers to abandon the cultivation of key crops such as rice, corn, and chickpeas. Abdullah, another farmer in Balkh, stated, “This is the season for planting chickpeas and corn, but without water, the quality suffers.” Some farmers are appealing to agricultural support organizations for assistance. Abdul Rashid said, “We appeal to the Islamic Emirate and international organizations to help us farmers stand on our feet.”
These farmers face the dual challenges of drought and a declining domestic market. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, the market for buying and selling goods has collapsed. People are struggling with poverty and unemployment, leaving them unable to purchase anything. The farmers note that peaches are not selling because of widespread unemployment.
