Fertilizer shortage continues to affect farmers

COLOMBO (News1st): Farmers in several areas continue to be affected due to the shortage of fertilizer. Farmers of Lower Andarawewa in Hambantota resorted to a protest after requests made to officials fell to deaf ears. "Minister Mahindananda says that there is sufficient fertilizer. But there is nothing here," a farmer said. Farmers who arrived at the Weeraketiya Agrarian Services Centre seeking fertilizer had to return home empty-handed. Farmers had gathered outside the centre after being informed that fertilizer would be distributed. However, the agrarian services centre has not received sufficient fertilizer. "Fertilizer must be given to farmers. Provide it under concessions. Provide us chemical fertilizer," a farmer noted. Officials attached to the agrarian services centre said that steps will be taken to provide fertilizer in near future.