Zubair Qureshi
Federal government has categorically rejected a statement of Agriculture Minister of Sindh that the federal government was doing nothing for locust threat.
In a rejoinder issued here Sunday by the Ministry of National Food Security & Research (MNFSR), it has been made clear that the federal government is fully aware of its responsibilities and is actively pursuing the locust threat to the country.
Prime Minister of Pakistan has convened three special meetings on locust and approved/released funds amounting to Rs1 billion to combat the locust threat, the statement further asserts.
It is also clarified that locust is not restricted to Sindh alone, rather it has its presence and invaded other provinces as well, further says the rejoinder.
Locust is an international phenomenon, threatening around 60 countries of the world. In Pakistan, swarms of desert locust are expected to migrate from Iran and other places to summer breeding regions in Sindh and Punjab, said the statement adding, the movement of these locusts across border cannot be restricted.
In anticipation of the possible threat, the Prime Minister of Pakistan has evoked a National Emergency on locust, and as a result, a National Action Plan (NAP-DL-PAK) was put into place in collaboration with the provinces.
Resultantly, strong measures have been taken to survey the land areas in all the provinces in order to take control measures where necessary.
According to NDMA report, a total of 153,665 sq. km area has been surveyed. Out of this, 50,148 sq km is in Sindh. For the purpose of survey and control, agencies like NDMA, Provincial Agricultural Departments and the Department of Plant Protection are working jointly and in strong collaboration with each other, it is further emphasised. Besides, the above active military units are deployed on the ground for support in terms of men and material. Survey reports are regularly shared with FAO for obtaining technical guidance and support. MNFSR is therefore in the process of revising National Action Plan for Locust, to make it more effective and resourceful. The statement has further clarified that instead of indulging in blame gaming, MNFSR will appreciate the coordinated response of all stakeholders to combat this threat including Sindh. We are confident that the nation will collectively respond in the best possible manner to the challenge at hand, concludes the statement.
