dijlahpoint - Basra Governorate is preparing to increase its cultivated areas for wheat and barley, while achieving noticeable growth in tomato production for the current season. However, this agricultural plan faces challenges related to water availability, salinity treatment, and rising production costs. According to agricultural authorities in the governorate, areas allocated for wheat have increased to over 53,000 dunams, compared to approximately 32,000 dunams last season. The expansion also included barley, eggplant, watermelon, and melon crops. Officials expect tomato production in the Zubair district to rise to about 650,000 tons. Marketing these crops at fair prices to cover costs and ensure profit for farmers remains a primary challenge, alongside the crucial factor of securing adequate water quotas to ensure the success of the expanded agricultural plan.