72 mn litres of diesel needed for Maha season paddy harvest

The Agriculture Ministry emphasized that some 72 million litres of diesel is required for preparation and harvesting paddy in the Maha season.

This diesel needed for ploughing activities ahead of the Maha season was revealed following an inquiry with regards to distribution of adequate fuel.

However, arrangements have been made to provide 50 litres of diesel per hectare to the farmers for ploughing the paddy fields and 40 litres per hectare for harvesting, the ministry secretary said.

Minister Mahinda Amaraweera also mentioned that even now, the fuel required for cultivation during the Maha season is provided from the fuel stations reserved for that purpose, and as per the instructions of the President, the supervision of the fuel for farming has been assigned to all the district secretaries.

If there is any issue with fuel requirement for cultivation in any area, farmers can meet the relevant district secretary immediately and solve the issue. 

Meanwhile, the Petroleum Corporation as well as the Agriculture Ministry have each appointed a separate officer for the coordination of these activities. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)