Karacadağ rice harvest begins in Diyarbakır volcanic lands

Harvesting has commenced for the registered Karacadağ rice in the volcanic regions of Diyarbakır. Due to the rocky and mountainous terrain, farmers utilize a combination of combine harvesters and manual labor through communal effort (imece) in areas where machinery cannot reach.

The rice is grown organically in unplowed, stony fields where seeds are sown in March and April. The crop relies on natural precipitation and snowmelt from the Karacadağ mountains, supplemented by water collected in ponds.

While producers report high quality and demand from both domestic and international markets, this season has faced challenges. Seasonal rainfall and wind have caused significant losses, with some producers estimating damages between 60 to 70 tons, valued at approximately 5 to 6 million lira. The current market price is reported to be around 150-160 lira per kilogram.