Climate change and farmers' struggles in Mannar

Mannar is a region where most people depend on farming for their livelihood in one of Sri Lanka's 'dry zones.' But in recent times, climate change has made farming here very difficult. Weather patterns have become unpredictable, temperatures are rising, and extreme weather conditions are happening more often. These changes are making it hard for farmers to grow crops, causing economic problems and food shortages. Microsoft founder Bill Gates and many climatologists warned a few years ago that 2025 would the year of climate chaos. And that is what's exactly happening.

- By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama

For many years, farmers in Mannar followed traditional farming cycles down the ages.

They planted and harvested crops in harmony with Yala and Maha seasons. The monsoons were predictable, as well as inter-monsoonal rains. This system helped ensure a steady food supply.

But now, the seasons are no longer predictable. Rainfall is irregular, and extreme weather makes it difficult to decide when to start farming. This has led to frequent crop failures.

In villages like Kayanagar and SithivinayagarKulam, farming is the main source of income.

In Kayanagar, most farmers grow crops on higher ground because there are no paddy fields and not enough water. On the other hand, when there is heavy rain, floods destroy crops, damage houses, and make roads unusable.

When there is no rain, water shortages make it hard to grow anything. Around 100 families in the village are directly affected, making everyday life a struggle.