There were good yields of seasonal fruits like mango, litchi, pineapple and jack fruit this year because of a favourable weather. But these are selling at almost throwaway prices in markets at Rangamati town, sellers said.

At the College Gate market in the town yesterday, mangoes were selling at Tk 10 to 15 per kilogram and litchis at between Tk 30 and Tk70 per hundred.

Pineapple was sold at Tk 3 to 6 per pair depending on the size. A big jack fruit was available at only Tk 8.

The prices are much lower than last year's, farmers coming from far away hill said.

There has been a glut in the market as fruits are ripening due to the hot spell, they said.

Traders and middlemen from other districts are taking the opportunity.

"I sold 1,000 pineapples at Tk 3000, which will not cover my production and transport costs", said Purnasha Chakma, an indigenous farmer who came from Boradam in an engine boat.

Choitali Tonchangya, come from Sapchhari with about 400 pineapples. After waiting for almost the whole day, she sold those at Tk 1100.

"This will not feed my family", she said.

Middlemen and agents of big traders control the market, she said.

"We are compelled to sell the fruits as those ripen early due to the hot spell".

Lack of storage facility and bad communication system are also responsible for the situation.

This year's dull prices will have a great dampening effect on farmers, said DAE (Department of Agriculture Extension) Statistical Officer Kajol Kanti Talukder.

Peoples in CHT became interested to plat fruit trees instead of timber trees in recent years.

The prices they are getting now will dampen their spirit, he said.

He said the entire CHT region can be turned into orchards, opening up great prospects for the people and export earning for the country. The soil, climate and hilly topography are suitable for raising big orchards. But that needs careful planning and government support, he said.

"A little care can turn this entire CHT region into an agricultural zone and boost horticultural, which can remove poverty and change the life of people".

He said about 30,000 acres of land are now used for fruit and vegetable cultivation. This can be increased many times. The prospect is unlimited but neither the government nor local bodies seem to realise the potential, he lamented.