Flood fury & agricultural amnesty sought, PM urged to implement agricultural amnesty

By Ikram Ullah Joyia

Islamabad: The Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) has expressed deep concern over the unprecedented devastation caused by the ongoing floods across Punjab and the imminent threat to Sindh's agricultural belt. In a letter to the Prime Minister, PBF has proposed urgent actions to prevent further economic and humanitarian fallout.

 The PBF has recommended the following immediate actions:

Canal Infrastructure Projects: Urgently commence new canal infrastructure projects to redirect floodwaters and protect farmland.

Declaration of Agricultural Emergency: Officially declare an Agricultural Emergency to mobilize resources and interventions at the national level.

Interest-Free Loan Scheme for Farmers: Offer interest-free loans of up to Rs2 million to farmers owning 5 to 15 acres of land.

Anti-Encroachment Drives: Remove illegal encroachments along riverbanks to improve water flow and reduce flood damage.

Long-Term Water Management: Implement localized water storage systems in riverside areas to better manage and utilize floodwaters.

Strengthening Provincial Government Departments: Enhance the capacity of Revenue and Irrigation Departments to deal with climate-driven challenges.

Price Stability and Oversight: Activate District Price Control Committees to curb hoarding and profiteering.

Import Authorization for Food Security: Authorize the import of wheat and rice to ensure competitive market pricing and supply stability.