SIRAJGANJ, Aug 02: More than 12,000 blacksmits in Bogura, Natore, Joypurhat and Sirajganj districts are actively involved in making iron tools.
Sources said many unemployed youths have attained financial solvency by taking blacksmithing work. It is playing an important role in the economy of the four northern districts.
Blacksmiths of the districts are optimistic of earning over Tk 100 million in the coming Eid-ul-Azha.
Anup Kormpker of Karmokerpara under Dupchanchia upazila said, "It is our peak season. The demand for machetes, choppers, knives and other iron-made tools is on the rise for the upcoming Eid."
Trader Polash Kumar Kaomuker of Akkeppur upazila in Joypurhat said he invested over Tk 0.1 million this season to make iron tools.
He said he supplies the tools to the large market of the capital.
Each small knife is being sold at Tk 20 to Tk 50, medium one at Tk 70 to Tk 100 and a big knife at Tk 200 to Tk 400 in the wholesale market.
President of Sirajganj Blacksmith Association Ranjon Kumar Karmoker said the blacksmiths in the region are facing acute capital shortage.
If the authority concerned provides necessary support, people of the ancestral profession will be benefited, he added.
