At Shmashan Mor in Jatrapur, Bagerhat, a bustling market for a special type of tall dry grass, locally known as kher, has become an essential lifeline for betel leaf farmers. This grass, vital for roofing the delicate pan boroj (betel leaf farms), shields crops from harsh sunlight and cold, ensuring their quality and productivity. 

The market attracts buyers from nearby areas like Jatrapur, Fakirhat, and Chitalmari, and serves as a central hub for trading kher. Each bundle, called tari, is sold for Tk 15, making it affordable for farmers to maintain their farms.

According to 55-year-old market worker Babu Sheikh, "We source this grass not only from nearby Mongla but also from distant places like Piyajkhali, Faridpur, and Nimtala in Dhaka. It is indispensable for maintaining the quality of pan boroj."

For his labour, Babu earns Tk 550 per day, a wage he describes as just enough to sustain his family.

Similarly, 70-year-old Roshik Kumar Das said the grass is mainly collected from Mongla and transported to the market using small motorized vehicles called nasimon.

Transporters like Sohag Sheikh, 35, earn Tk 1,600 to Tk 1,700 per trip from Mongla to Jatrapur. After deducting expenses, Sohag takes home approximately Tk 700 per trip.

Despite the steady work, the labourers face challenges with low wages. "We work from morning till evening, but the pay is minimal. Still, I'm grateful for the consistent employment," shared Russell Molla, who earns Tk 500 per day.

A better income would bring significant improvements to our lives," Russell added.