IRAN, ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF (10 February)
Wheat output for 2003 has been estimated at a record level of over 13 million tonnes, 0.5 million tonnes up from last year’s bumper crop, and 2.8 million tonnes more than the average of the previous five years, as a result of favourable weather and a substantial increase in financial support to agriculture from the Government. Currently the main crops in the ground are wheat and barley. The harvesting of barley will begin in March, while that of wheat will commence around May/June. The prospects for the current crop are favourable reflecting good rainfall and a lucrative price for local producers.
According to the latest official statistics, some 41 000 people died as a result of the earthquake in Bam last December. The findings of a recent FAO mission indicate that the earthquake in Bam region has seriously affected the agricultural sector, which employs over 25 percent of the district’s total population of 230 000. The traditional irrigation infrastructure, water channels, several wells, grain storages and other facilities were all seriously damaged. About 650 livestock shelters were destroyed and significant numbers of livestock have been reported lost, potentially affecting the milk supply and livelihood of most farmers.
Food assistance to earthquake victims, 100 000 most vulnerable people, has been provided by WFP.