ISLAMABAD:The country possessed surplus wheat stocks as there was 7.1 million tonnes of wheat available as compared to the last year during the month of September which was 6.1 million tonnes amid one million additional procurement being done by the government.
An official of the federal government told reporter that the National Flood Response and Coordination Centre (NFRCC) was carrying out one window operation for the rescue, relief and rehabilitation of the flood victims. The federal and provincial departments, Pakistan Army, UN agencies and NGOs were working collectively and making efforts to reach out masses through better coordination, he added.
The food supplies across the country were being ensured in general and in flood-hit areas in particular, he said. The official rejected any shortage of wheat and said there was no chance of it. The wheat stock losses in PASCO and Sindh and Balcohistan governments’ silos were also checked in flood-hit areas that were reported very nominal and no major damages reported like 3% losses at few places and less than 3% in many places were noted.
“We are sure that there will be no problem in ensuring wheat and flour supplies to the masses. The government will take action against hoarders and those involved in cartelization of wheat causing price hike as we have surplus agricultural commodities in the country,” he said.
He highlighted that the Centre was seriously working to ensure sowing of wheat in Sindh in October as de-watering was underway at various sites and it was expected that the larger area of Sindh would be available for wheat sowing.
“We will procure seed for this area and will urge the international community to provide seed for wheat sowing; however, there is a little shortage of seed at the moment that will be fulfilled after sowing.”
Moreover, he said the Centre would try to provide sunflower seeds in the areas having accumulated flood water for sowing to the masses so that this crop could be cultivated and benefit Pakistan.