A locust swarm has now invaded parts of Maharashtra, and Karnataka Government is hoping that a change in wind-direction could force the insects away from North Karnataka. The locusts are currently traveling in the north-south direction.
The government starts preparing for the attack
On Wednesday, Development Commissioner Vandita Sharma held a meeting with concerned officials about the standard operating procedures in the worst-case scenario.
However, Agricultural director BY Srinivas said that there is a 50:50 chance of the locusts landing in the northern parts of the state. He further added: “The meeting discussed measures to tackle the swarm of insects as there are reports that they have reached Nagpur and surrounding areas in Maharashtra.”
KSNDMC Director GS Srinivasa said: “The wind flow is currently in the north-south direction and is expected to last for the next two days. Wind will flow towards Gujarat due to the development of a low-pressure region in the Arabian sea.”
Preparations underway
Meanwhile, preparations are underway to tackle the situation, if in case it arises. While a meeting with Agricultural Minister BC Patil is scheduled, the officials are also taking inputs from other sources.
The use of insecticides is likely to be the plan, although there is an option of using the blow-torches. Several experts have opined that the latter option will work better.
Former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy also had a few suggestions on the topic. He said: “The government should immediately contact Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to find out what steps they took and avert this.”
Source: Deccan Herald
