In Shehba, where wheat, barley, onion and potatoes are produced, farmers have become incapable of doing agriculture. Despite the heavy embargo of the Damascus government in place for three years, people continue their resistance.

The government of Damascus, which does not allow anything from basic food items to heating and shelter needs to be delivered to Shehba, does not provide the necessary medicines, seeds and diesel for agricultural production in the region. The farmers in Shehba, who keep the economy of the city functioning, say that they cannot produce agricultural products.

EMBARGO HAS AFFECTED AGRICULTURE NEGATIVELY

Speaking on the subject, farmer Mihemed Betal stated that agricultural production is diminishing every year. Referring to the embargo of the Damascus government, Betal stated that basic agricultural needs such as seeds and fertilizers are not allowed to be distributed, that diesel prices are also very high and that they do not have the opportunity to irrigate their fields unless it rains.

UNEMPLOYMENT IS INCREASING BECAUSE OF EMBARGO

Agricultural Engineer Nisrin Mihemed said that they have had difficulties in providing agricultural needs due to the embargo imposed on Shehba for three years. Highlighting the difficulties in the implementation of agricultural projects in the region, Nisrin added, “The embargo has made the lives of the people very difficult. Unemployment is increasing day by day. People cannot find jobs because there is no agricultural production. Every year we used to provide seed and fertilizer support to farmers. However, this year we could not provide any support.”

ANIMAL HUSBANDRY IS ALSO AFFECTED

Stating that animal husbandry has also been affected by the embargo along with agriculture, Nisrin said; “Since wheat agriculture is decreasing, straw cannot be obtained for animals to consume. Meadows are not enough for animals.”

Nisrin called for a lift of the Damascus government's embargo and urged the international public to take responsibility.