Estimation of wheat harvesting losses under different harvesting methods in Punjba province of Pakistan

Abstract

The present study was carried out across four distinct agroecological zones within the Punjab province to assess the extent of wheat harvesting using various methods and to calculate the associated losses during harvesting and threshing. Data were collected by visiting wheat fields where three different harvesting methods were employed, and interviews were conducted with the farmers. The findings revealed that 63.2% of the wheat crop was harvested using combine harvesters, followed by reaper harvesting at 21.7%, and manual harvesting at 15%. The highest losses during both harvesting and threshing were observed with the combined harvesting method (8.75%), followed by reaper harvesting (7.18%), and manual harvesting (3.18%). The study's results underscore the importance of providing training to combine harvester owners and operators to mitigate these losses. Despite the significant losses associated with combined harvesting, it remains the most cost-effective method for wheat harvesting, covering 63.2% of the wheat-growing area in Punjab Province, primarily due to its speed and efficiency.