Uthai thani: Farmers in the Mueang District of Uthai Thani Province have announced an impending halt to their agricultural activities due to unsustainable production costs driven by rising fuel prices. The decision comes as a significant blow to the local agricultural community, which has been a cornerstone of the region's economy for generations.

According to Thai News Agency, the predicament faced by farmers was highlighted during a visit to Ban Thung Ai Hu, Village No. 7, Nam Sueam Subdistrict. Mrs. Chamroon, a seasoned farmer aged 70, presented her rice paddies to reporters, illustrating the dire situation. Her fields, which span over 20 rai, are on the verge of harvest but suffer from incomplete rice panicles due to insufficient water and fertilization. The price of fuel, now exceeding 50 baht per liter, has made it financially impossible for her to operate water pumps, leading to irregular irrigation.

The cost of fertilizers has also surged, with prices rising from approximately 800 baht per sack to nearly 1,300 baht. This financial strain has limited fertilization to a single application at the start of the growing season, leaving crops stunted. Consequently, the yield from her rice paddies is expected to plummet to less than 8 tons, a stark contrast to the usual 25 tons. The current market price of rice, at roughly 5,800 baht per ton, falls short of covering these escalating investment costs.

Adding to the farmers' woes is the increased cost of hiring combine harvesters, which has risen from 500 baht per rai to 600 baht per rai. Farmers are now required to provide additional fuel for the machinery, further inflating expenses.

Mrs. Chamroon, expressing deep disappointment, shared that farming has been a lifelong vocation passed down through her family. Despite the physical demands, she has always derived pride and satisfaction from her work. However, the unprecedented fuel prices have left her with no choice but to cease farming activities after the upcoming harvest.

Looking towards the future, many farmers may be compelled to leave their rice fields fallow temporarily or explore alternative livelihoods, in hopes that economic conditions will eventually improve and allow them to return to their cherished profession.