SWAT: Authorities in Swat have launched a programme to distribute free fruit fly traps among farmers, aiming to protect orchards from pest damage and improve crop yields in the region.
The initiative was inaugurated at the Farm Services Centre in Kabal, where officials from the district administration and agriculture department briefed farmers on the use of traps and pest control methods. Around 140,000 traps will be distributed across the district under the programme.
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Officials said the distribution also includes methyl eugenol, a substance used to attract and control fruit flies, which are considered a major threat to orchards in Swat.
Focus on protecting fruit crops
Agriculture experts said fruit flies can cause significant damage to crops, particularly in fruit-growing regions like Swat. The use of traps is expected to help safeguard produce such as peaches, apples, plums, apricots and persimmons.
They added that early intervention through pest control measures can reduce crop losses and support farmers’ incomes.
Farmers briefed on usage
During the ceremony, farmers were provided with guidance on how to properly install and use the traps for effective results.
MPA Sultan Room and other officials encouraged farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices and make full use of the provided resources to protect their crops.
The programme is part of broader efforts by the agriculture department to improve productivity and reduce pest-related losses in the region.
