KHAIRPUR: Date palm orchards in parts of Khairpur are facing a serious threat as a destructive pest infestation continues to damage trees, raising concerns among growers and agricultural experts over potential large-scale crop losses.
The affected areas include Rasoolabad, Bachal Bhambhro, and Ahmedpur, where date growers report that orchards are increasingly coming under attack from a dangerous disease and insect infestation. Farmers and orchard owners say the situation has become alarming, with significant damage already visible in several plantations.
According to agricultural expert Professor Abdul Sami Bhambhro, the destructive pest attacks date palm trees by damaging their branches, causing them to dry out. As the infestation progresses, the entire tree gradually weakens, dries up, and eventually collapses, resulting in the complete loss of the tree and its fruit production.
He warned that if immediate and effective control measures are not taken, the infestation could spread further, leading to substantial economic losses for farmers and affecting one of the region’s most valuable agricultural commodities.
Date cultivation is a major source of income for many farmers in Khairpur, one of Pakistan’s leading date-producing districts. Any significant damage to orchards could have serious financial consequences for growers and negatively impact the local agricultural economy.
Meanwhile, Additional Director of Agriculture Azhar Hussain Weser said that officials have identified two different types of insect infestations affecting the orchards. He stated that the Agriculture Department has field teams actively monitoring the situation and providing farmers with guidance on preventive and control measures to limit the spread of the pests.
The department has advised growers to remain vigilant, regularly inspect their orchards, and follow recommended agricultural practices to protect their trees. Officials emphasized that timely intervention and cooperation between farmers and the Agriculture Department would be crucial in minimizing damage and safeguarding the district’s date palm crop.
About The Author
