The vibrant mango season has begun officially in Rajshahi, with local markets welcoming the first harvests of indigenous varieties on Thursday morning.
Following directives from the district administration, farmers are diligently picking the juicy fruits, echoing the traditions of past years.
A recent meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter established a detailed mango calendar to ensure the availability of safe, ripened, and chemical-free mangoes for consumers.
The schedule allows harvesting of local varieties starting Thursday, with specific dates for popular types: Gopalbhog, Ranipachhand, and Lakhna from May 25; Himsagar and Khirshapat from May 30; Lengra from June 10; Amrapali and Fazly from June 15; BARI-4 from July 5; Ashwina from July 10; Gourmati from July 15; and Ilamati from August 20.
Umme Shalma, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), noted that most mangoes will ripen within these timelines, though early indigenous varieties are already ready, while favourites like Gopalbhog, Khirshapat, and Lengra need a few more days.
Beyond traditional markets, vendors are now selling mangoes in communities and localities, adding to the season’s buzz.
The district administration is closely overseeing the process, providing support to farmers and traders while ensuring compliance. Executive magistrates are actively monitoring orchards and markets to prevent the use of harmful chemicals, a priority emphasised by Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter. “Adhering to the harvesting schedule is in the public’s best interest,” she urged.
Over the next two weeks, mango trading is set to surge in key markets like Baneswar, Shaheb Bazar, Haragram, Upashahar, Shalbagan, Rajabari, Godagari, Kansat, and Rohanpur, transforming them into vibrant hubs.
Varieties such as Gopalbhog, Khirsapat, Himsagar, Lengra, Fazli, Amrapali, Ashwina, and BARI Mango-4 will flood the stalls, delighting locals and visitors alike.
Official data highlights the region’s mango prowess: 26,150 hectares in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj are expected to yield 244,000 tonnes, while Naogaon’s 12,671 hectares aim for 161,242 tonnes, and Natore’s 4,823 hectares target 56,021 tonnes.
Local farmer Monimul Haque from Duary village under Paba Upazila shared his excitement, harvesting five maunds of Guti from his 20 early-variety trees, with Dudheshwar next on his list next week.
Meanwhile, Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj, renowned for mango production, have set an ambitious goal to export 300 tonnes to Europe and the Middle East this season. Besides, China is expected to import a large quantity of mango this year.
Using modern fruit-bagging techniques and advanced technologies, farmers are producing high-quality, pesticide-free mangoes. Anwarul Haque, President of the Rajshahi Agro Food Producer Society, highlighted the growing trend of fruit-bagging, which eliminates pesticide use and boosts export potential.
“Mango exports, now reaching Europe and beyond, are nearly double the profit of local sales, though they require extra care and technology,” he said. With training in best practices, farmers are tapping into lucrative international markets, promising a prosperous season ahead.