livestock and crop losses mount in Qamishli drought

Syria’s Eastern and northern regions have suffered the devastating effects of the worst drought the region has experienced in years.

Many farmers have been struggling to find water and fodder for their livestock and the lack of grass has also left some unable to make enough silage to see them through the winter.

Farmers from the countryside of Qamishli told A24 News Agency’s reporter that the region has seen losses for cattle and crops, which are very expensive and sold in US dollar.

Women collecting hay for feeding livestock, the main source of their income, said this situation puts their livelihoods at risk.

For his part, Co-chair of the Agriculture and Economy Authority in the Autonomous Administration Mathloum Hassan urged farmers to use water wisely and to obtain licenses for water well construction.