Tea Plantation Devastated by Looper Caterpillar Infestation in Jhapa
Summary
Looper caterpillar infestation has devastated tea gardens in Bhadrapur and other parts of Jhapa, cutting production to near zero and pushing small farmers and factories into crisis. Farmers and cooperative leaders are appealing to the government for pesticides, technical support, and relief.
Key Points
- Tea gardens in Bhadrapur-1, Jhapa, have been ravaged by a looper caterpillar infestation that has stripped plants bare and slashed production to almost zero.
- Small farmers say their livelihoods have been destroyed, with many unable to repay bank and cooperative loans after repeated pesticide sprays failed to control the pests.
- Tea processing factories in the area are on the verge of closure because green-leaf supply has fallen sharply, threatening workers' jobs as well.
- Local cooperatives and ward officials have appealed to the Koshi provincial government and concerned agencies for emergency pesticides, technical assistance, and financial relief.
