A huge quantity of wheat stored under the open sky outside government godowns in various areas of Umerkot district have been infected by termites, raising concerns about the potential loss of thousands of tons of wheat due to administrative negligence. Surprisingly, the deputy commissioner has shown little interest or response.
Reports indicate that a huge amount of the wheat, which was procured by the government at a rate of Rs4,000 per 40kg last year, is currently exposed to the elements at Wali Dad Palli and Dhoro Naro areas.
The prolonged exposure has left the wheat vulnerable to termite infestations, resulting in the deterioration of the stored stock.
Farmers in the region have expressed concern, particularly as wheat prices are expected to fall in the open market this year. Many have cultivated wheat solely to meet their household needs, fearing the possibility of a wheat crisis due to low production and the risk of black market activities. The government has yet to release any policies to address these concerns and prevent a potential crisis.
According to data from the Umerkot Agriculture Department, wheat has been cultivated on 960,824 acres this year, falling short of the target of 1,080,680 acres. This marks a decline in cultivation compared to the previous year (2023-24), when the target was exceeded. Adding to the administrative concerns, the position of District Food Controller has remained vacant for the past three months, with no steps taken to fill the vacancy.
Efforts to obtain a statement from Deputy Commissioner Naveed Ahmed Lark on the situation were unsuccessful, as he declined to comment, reflecting a continued lack of attention and action from the local administration regarding the issue.
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