DERA GHAZI KHAN: A severe locust infestation has struck the rural areas of Chakmat/Ozan, near Chowk Rujhan, causing extensive damage to standing crops and posing a serious threat to the local population , local sources told Dawn.

According to residents, the locusts have invaded fields and human settlements Locals report that the locusts are not only damaging crops but also biting children, older people, women, and men, resulting in the fear of outbreak of diseases as like skin rashes. People bitten by locusts are experiencing red spots on their skin.

The residents and surrounding areas have appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and other government functionaries to take immediate and effective measures to control and eliminate the locusts.

They warned if timely action is not taken, locusts could spread into urban areas, threatening even more populations. The affected communities have called for urgent intervention to prevent further devastation.

Rajanpur Deputy Commissioner Shafqatullah Mushtaq was not available for immediate comment.

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2025