LARKANA: Wheat movement from Larkana division to neighbouring districts and other provinces has been banned to facilitate achievement of procurement target, it was officially announced on Friday.

Larkana Commissioner Ghanwar Leghari has imposed the ban for 30 days after, according to sources in food department, Deputy Commissioner Rabia Siyal made such a request in a communication dated March 20. She recommended the ban on transportation of wheat stocks outside the division,

particularly through the bordering districts of Qambar-Shahdadkot, Kandhkot-Kashmore and Jacobabad.

In an official communication, it was apprehended that the free movement of wheat within the division and towards Balochistan and Punjab would make achievement of procurement target, set for the 2022-23 season, difficult.

The notification for the ban was issued on Thursday (April 6) to DCs and SSPs of all districts of Larkana division who have been asked to ensure implementation of the order in consultation with food department.

They have been authorised to seize wheat stocks if found being transported in violation of the ban to other provinces.

At a recent meeting of all stakeholders chaired by the commissioner, it was decided to ensure achievement of the procurement target set at 410,000 tonnes in five districts of the division. It was also decided to do away with the practice of a one-kg deduction on every 100kg for the procurement.

Published in Dawn, April 8th, 2023