Iran's Darrashahr emerges as vegetable production hub in Ilam Province

DARRASHIHR, Iran — A district in the western Iranian city of Ilam is becoming a regional center for vegetable production, with local farmers harvesting roughly 450 tons of leafy greens each year using natural spring water and seasonal streams flowing from the Zagros Mountains. District Agriculture Director Zahid Zenivand said about 30 hectares have been planted this year with more than 20 leafy vegetable varieties, including basil, leek, parsley and assorted peppers. Roughly 12 of the crops grown in the area carry medicinal properties, he added, contributing economic value to local output. The harvest season runs through December, and officials project total vegetable production in the district will exceed 450 tons, providing about 100 direct jobs to local residents. Ilam Rural Development Director Fathullah Eskandari described crop diversification on limited land as an effective strategy against climate and water risks, helping prevent monoculture planting and soil erosion. He added that storage and packaging infrastructure must be strengthened to connect local producers with outside markets.