Ranger personnel are involved 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 imposed a ban on sugarcane cultivation near roads and police check posts in the riverine areas (Katcha) of Rahim Yar Khan and adjoining Rajanpur districts.
The restriction has been implemented under Section 144, and both district administrations have issued formal notifications.
Officials said the decision is aimed at limiting 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, making surveillance difficult and delaying police response during operations.
By restricting the cultivation of tall crops in sensitive areas, authorities hope to improve visibility and strengthen security control.
Rahim Yar Khan Deputy Commissioner Zaheer Anwar Jappa confirmed the development and stated that the decision was taken following the directives of the Home Department to maintain peace in the region.
He said the ban would apply specifically to areas along key roads and around police checkpoints, where monitoring suspicious activity is critical.
“The move 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 restricted areas.
The administration has warned that strict legal action will be taken against those who violate the orders. However, officials also stressed that the decision is temporary and part of broader efforts to establish long-term stability in the region.
The move has sparked mixed reactions among 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, the sugar mill managements have reportedly challenged the decision before the high court.
A legal expert representing the JDW Group said the Home Department had earlier sought proposals from the deputy commissioners of Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur regarding cultivation of tall plants in sensitive areas.
Following this, authorities identified around 150 locations along roads and near police checkpoints where restrictions would be applied.
The total affected area is estimated to cover approximately 10,000 acres, including around 600 acres linked to JDW Group sugar mills.
The legal expert argued that the abrupt ban could lead to significant financial losses for both farmers and the sugar industry, particularly due to the destruction of standing crops.
He warned that the decision may have broader implications for the local agricultural economy.
Despite the concerns, officials maintain the move 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 improve security and restore public confidence in the affected areas.
