Barabanki district is witnessing a significant transformation in its potato storage capabilities with the construction of 12 new cold storage facilities. This expansion is set to resolve the district’s longstanding storage challenges and establish Barabanki as the third-largest potato storage hub in Uttar Pradesh, following Farrukhabad and Kannauj.
Current Storage Capacity and Operations
The district currently operates 65 cold storage facilities with a combined capacity to store 600,000 metric tons (equivalent to 11.5 million bags) of potatoes. This substantial infrastructure has already positioned Barabanki as a significant player in the state’s potato storage sector.
Strategic Expansion Plans
The addition of 12 new cold storage facilities will increase the district’s storage capacity by 2.5 million bags, bringing the total capacity to 14 million bags. These new facilities are being strategically located across various areas including:
- Three facilities in Fatehpur
- Ahmadpur
- Storage units along Dewa Road near Mittai
- New centers in Baddupur
- Facilities in Sudhiamau, Bindaura, Shahavpur
- Storage units near Baburi village and Bhagouli
Impact on Local Agriculture
The district has seen remarkable growth in potato cultivation, expanding from 18,000 hectares in 2018 to an expected area of over 24,500 hectares in the current season. With approximately 85% of the sowing already completed, the district produces around 700,000 metric tons of potatoes annually.
Regional Benefits
This expansion will significantly benefit local farmers who currently store about 30% of their produce in neighboring districts like Bahraich, Ayodhya, Lucknow, and Amethi. The new facilities will eliminate the need for farmers to transport their produce to these distant locations, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
Future Prospects
According to Horticulture Inspector Ganeshchandra Mishra, these developments will solidify Barabanki’s position as the third-largest potato storage hub in Uttar Pradesh. The enhanced storage infrastructure is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the district’s growing potato production and strengthening its position in the state’s agricultural sector.
