Rangers personnel are participating in joint operation against criminal gangs in Rajanpur district. PHOTO: ONLINE
RAHIM YAR KHAN:
In a move to improve law and order, authorities have imposed a ban on sugarcane cultivation near roads and police check posts in the riverine (Katcha) areas of Rahim Yar Khan and adjoining Rajanpur districts.
The restriction has been enforced under Section 144, with both district administrations issuing formal notices.
Officials said the decision is aimed at curbing the movement of criminal elements and helping law enforcement agencies conduct effective operations in the crime-prone belt.
According to sources, dense sugarcane fields in the katcha areas often serve as safe hideouts for criminals, hindering surveillance and delaying police response during operations.
By restricting the cultivation of tall crops in sensitive zones, the authorities hope to improve visibility and strengthen security controls.
Rahim Yar Khan Deputy Commissioner Zaheer Anwar Jappa confirmed the development and stated that the decision was taken on the instructions of the Ministry of Interior to maintain peace in the region.
He said the ban will apply specifically to areas along key roads and around police checkpoints where surveillance of suspicious activities is critical.
“The measure is aimed at facilitating law enforcement agencies and ensuring timely action against criminal elements,” he said, adding that farmers have been advised to switch to alternative crops in the restricted areas.
The administration has warned that strict legal action will be taken against those who violate the orders. However, the officials also stressed that the decision is temporary and part of a broader effort 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 an important cash crop in the region and its cultivation supports a large segment of the rural economy.
Meanwhile, 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 suggestions 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 cover about 10,000 acres, including about 600 acres attached to JDW Group’s sugar mills.
The legal expert argued that the abrupt ban could result in significant economic losses to both farmers and the sugar industry, especially due to the destruction of standing crops.
He warned that the decision could have wider implications for the local agricultural economy.
Despite concerns, officials maintain the measure is necessary to tackle crime in the Katcha belt, which has long been considered a hotspot for criminal activity.
They expressed hope that the initiative would increase security and restore public confidence in the affected areas.
