SWAT — The Agriculture Department has launched a programme to distribute free fruit fly traps among farmers in Swat, aiming to protect orchards from pest damage and improve crop yield.
The initiative was formally inaugurated during a ceremony held at the Farm Services Centre in Kabal, attended by district administration officials, agriculture experts, and a large number of local farmers.
Programme targets pest control
Officials said the programme includes the distribution of approximately 140,000 fruit fly traps across Swat district, along with methyl eugenol used to control the pest.
They added that the initiative is designed to raise awareness about the harmful impact of fruit flies on orchards and to provide farmers with practical tools to manage infestations.
Threat to fruit production
Agriculture experts described fruit flies as a major threat to orchards in the region, capable of damaging a wide range of crops including peaches, apples, plums, apricots, persimmons, and various vegetables.
They said the use of traps can significantly reduce crop losses and improve overall production.
Farmers urged to adopt modern practices
Member of Provincial Assembly Sultan Room and other speakers encouraged farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices and make effective use of the distributed traps.
At the end of the ceremony, traps were handed over to farmers, who were also given instructions on their proper installation and use.
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