Resettlement project deserted

BANJARMASIN, South Kalimantan: At least 25 transmigrant families have left their homes in Rawa Muning after finding their government provided land to be unproductive.

Antara reported that the farmers who resettled in Rawa Muning from other provinces six months ago could not bear the hardship of the prolonged dry season. The drought has prevented them from cultivating the land and foodstuffs provided by the government to hold them over have not been sufficient.

Each family receives rice and Rp 49,750 (US$23) per month over a one year period after their arrival. Afterwards they are supposed to be able to make ends meet from their farm harvests.(pan)