Photo : Messenger
On Wednesday, as the world celebrates Valentine's Day and the Spring Festival, the Baraitli and Harbang areas of Chakaria upazila in Cox’s Bazar, renowned for their blooming roses, anticipate significant sales of flowers worth crores of money.
Leading up to the festivities, traders from Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, and other regions across the country have been procuring various types of flowers in advance, with many placing pre-orders. The flower yield has been robust, bringing joy to local florists.
Reflecting on the favorable political climate, flower farmers in Baraitli and Harbang Union expressed their happiness as they actively engaged in flower cultivation this year. The "Kingdom of Flowers" is back in full swing.
Subhash Dey, who sources flowers at wholesale prices from Baritli in Chakaria and sells them at the Cheragi Pahar intersection in Chattogram city, noted a steady demand. On average, he procures 5-10 thousand flowers daily from Chakaria, with demand skyrocketing on special occasions like Valentine's Day. This year, about 50,000 roses and gladiolus flowers have been pre-ordered for the romantic holiday.
Nashir Uddin, a flower grower from Alam Nagar in Baraitli, highlighted the picturesque rose gardens flourishing under favorable weather conditions. He also mentioned additional income from selling rose seedlings.
While red roses remain a top choice, farmers like Kofil Uddin noted lesser cultivation of white and yellow varieties despite their higher market value. Wholesalers from Chattogram, Kongbazar, Dhaka, and other parts of the country swiftly purchase these unique varieties due to their allure.
Despite some grievances regarding the lack of government incentives for flower growers, Moinul Islam, convenor of the Garden Owners Association, expressed optimism. He cited increased profits for hundreds of farmers in Baritali, attributing the surge in flower farming to improved political stability.
Chakaria Upazila Agriculture Officer SM Nasim Hossain confirmed approximately 200 acres of rose and 150 acres of gladiolus cultivation. Although there's no provision for government support, the Agriculture Department offers necessary guidance to flower growers, ensuring their continued success.
The lush fields of vibrant blooms paint a picturesque scene, attracting wholesale buyers from far and wide. With each passing day, anticipation builds as the gardens prepare to yield their bounty for the romantic occasion.
Despite past hardships during periods of unrest, the resilience of the farmers shines through as they embrace the resurgence of flower farming with renewed vigor. Their dedication and hard work promise to make this Valentine's Day a memorable and lucrative one, with millions of taka expected to exchange hands in the bustling flower markets.
Messenger/Fardin
