THAILAND: Rubber growers told to brace for severe drought in Thailand

The Rubber Authority of Thailand has warned rubber growers to ready themselves for a severe drought.

The authority has suggested that rubber planters prepare contingency measures to cope with water shortages, which are expected to grip the country in a month. Owners of young rubber trees are advised to weed their plantations, as well as use the weeds to cover their tree’s stems to maintain moisture. Other ways to safeguard their rubber plantations include growing water-rich plants such as bananas or pineapples, as well as trimming branches to reduce the effect of wind. Rubber growers who need advice on plantation care can contact local offices of the Rubber Authority of Thailand countrywide.

Source: Daily “Thai Visa News”, Bangkok, through NNT (National News Bureau of Thailand); 19 Feb 2016
(Syed Rashid Ali, Karachi, Pakistan)