Resettlement project deserted

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)