Sindh exempts agri stores from lockdown

In a latest development, the Sindh government on Thursday decided to allow the fertilizers, pesticides and seeds stores to open in the province by exempting them from the lockdown.

24NewsHD quoted Sindh Agriculture Minister Ismail Rahu as saying that the decision was taken due to the upcoming Kharif season in the province and the problems faced by farmers.

He said the growers won’t be able to sow cotton and paddy while vegetables and fruits would also be badly hit if the necessary supplies [seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and others] were not available.

Rahu said the country would face a serious crisis if the agri-related supplies were not available to the farmers.

The minister said the aforementioned stores would remain open during the timing specified by the administration, adding that only the registered and approved dealers and agents were to benefit from the move.

Rahu said the decision was taken on the request of farmers, adding that the deputy commissioners and police officers had been directed not to shut those outlets.

It is also learned that the Sindh government has issued necessary directives to the home department in this regard.