Rangers personnel are taking part in a joint operation against a criminal gang in Rajanpur district. PHOTO: ONLINE
RAHIM YAR KHAN:
In a bid to improve law and order, authorities have banned sugarcane cultivation near roads and police checkposts in the riverine areas (Katcha) of Rahim Yar Khan and adjoining districts of Rajanpur.
The restriction was enforced under Section 144 with both district administrations issuing official notifications.
Officials said the move was aimed at restricting the movement of criminal elements and helping law enforcement agencies carry out effective operations in the crime-prone area.
According to sources, dense sugarcane fields in Katcha areas often serve as safe hideouts for criminals, hampering surveillance and delaying police intervention during operations.
By restricting tall crops in sensitive areas, authorities hope to improve visibility and strengthen security controls.
Rahim Yar Khan Deputy Commissioner Zaheer Anwar Jappa confirmed the development, saying the decision was taken based on the Interior Ministry’s directives aimed at maintaining peace in the region.
He added that the ban would specifically apply to areas along main roads and around police checkpoints, where monitoring for suspicious activity is essential.
“The measure aims to facilitate law enforcement and ensure prompt action against criminal elements,” he said, adding that farmers have been advised to shift to alternative crops in restricted areas.
The administration warned that strict legal action would be taken against those who violate the orders. However, officials also stressed that the decision was temporary and part of broader efforts to establish long-term stability in the region.
The move has drawn mixed reactions from local farmers, many of whom fear financial losses due to the sudden restriction.
Sugarcane is a major cash crop in the region and its cultivation supports much of the rural economy.
Meanwhile, the sugar mill administrations have reportedly challenged the decision in the High Court.
A legal expert representing the JDW Group said the Home Ministry had earlier sought proposals from the deputy commissioners of Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur regarding cultivation of tall crops in sensitive areas.
Following this, authorities identified around 150 locations along roads and near police checkpoints where restrictions would be enforced.
The total affected area is estimated to be around 10,000 acres, of which around 600 acres are related to JDW Group sugar mills.
The legal expert argued that this abrupt ban could lead to substantial financial losses for both farmers and the sugar industry, particularly due to the destruction of standing crops.
He warned the move could have wider implications for the local agricultural economy.
Despite their concerns, officials maintain the move is necessary to combat crime in the Katcha belt, which has long been considered a hotspot for criminal activity.
They expressed hope that the initiative would enhance security and restore public confidence in the affected areas.
