PESHAWAR: The Pakistan Army has undertaken measures to step up delivery of fodder for the cattle brought by internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the North Waziristan Agency to Bannu.

Similarly, efforts are also underway to protect the livestock from diseases. Relevant officials say that 650 tons of fodder has so far been made available for the cattle in the area. Provincial Disaster Management Authority, Punjab, has sent 500 tons and the Pakistan Army 41 tons of fodder, respectively. Besides, the ex-servicemen association donated 45 tons while 64 tons of fodder has been received from various organisations.

The officials said that about 46,576 animals had been provided health facilities. They said that 75,124 animals, 112,839 birds and 102,377 poultry had been vaccinated to protect them from diseases.

Moreover, 17 veterinary health teams have been deployed in Bannu, Lakki Marwat, DI Khan, Karak and Tank to vaccinate the cattle to cope with outbreak of any epidemic. For this purpose, 15 mobile and three veterinary clinics have been established in Janikhel area. One civil veterinary hospital each at Domail, Bannu, and Lakki Marwat have been notified for the animals owned by displaced people.

Potential livestock intervention is also available from local and international organisations, philanthropists and government departments to cater to the future needs.

Sheds have also been installed to protect animals from heat. The animals are being provided fodder and water under the sheds where special care is taken to ensure timely sanitation.

Since the influx of IDPs remains in Janikhel area, massive deployment of fodder, mobile health units and dispensaries are concentrated there to cater to their requirements.

Before disbursement of government financial assistance and to fulfill domestic obligations, the IDPs used to sell their cattle on cheaper prices, but after handing over cash to them the practice has now been discontinued.

Published in Dawn, August 27th, 2014