BADIN, Oct 29: Acute shortage of stamp papers of almost all denominations for the last two weeks is causing untold misery for the people.

Non-judicial stamp papers of lower denominations are usually required to execute agreements, affidavits and other documents. However, no stamp paper valued at Rs5, Rs6, Rs10 and Rs20 is available in the treasury office, Badin. The result is that if someone needs one, he has to buy one of Rs25 as no other option is available.

The T.O. office says it is unable to help as it claims that the supply has been delayed by the controller of stamps in Karachi.

RICE SHORTAGE FEARED: Shortfall in rice production is feared in Badin district this year due to heavy rains, strong winds and attacks of pests.

In Taluka Shaheed Fazil Rahu, Tando Bago and Badin, 80 per cent rice crop has been damaged due to rains and breaches, resulting in heavy losses to growers who have been demanding immediate financial help from the government.

Ali Nawaz Memon of the Sindh Abadgar Board, Badin, has alleged that 50 per cent seedlings of paddy crops was lost due to negligence on the part of irrigation and drainage authorities.

The growers have demanded that they be provided immediate financial assistance so that they could plant more crops.