Locust Infestation Spreads to 54,700 Hectares in Kyrgyzstan
Locust Infestation Threatens Agriculture in Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek – June 15, 2024 – The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry in Kyrgyzstan has reported that locusts have been successfully destroyed on over 44,950 hectares of land in the country. The ministry has been actively working to combat the spread of locusts, which were initially found on 54,795 hectares.
Experts have warned that in 2024, the locust infestation could potentially impact up to 65,000 hectares of land. To tackle this issue, a budget of 33,537.8 million soms has been allocated from the national budget for the control and prevention of locust outbreaks.
The Ministry highlighted that the sudden rise in the locust population is attributed to favorable weather conditions, causing them to expand into new areas where they were previously not observed. If left unchecked, experts estimate that locusts could devastate up to 90,000 hectares of crops.
To combat the locust infestation, 13 units of special equipment with pesticide application capabilities, as well as additional equipment for pesticide delivery and tractors, have been mobilized for the effort.
Kyrgyzstan is home to over 50 species of locusts, with the Moroccan and Italian locusts being the most destructive. These gregarious insects can cover vast distances and inflict significant damage on agriculture. It is estimated that 500,000 locusts can consume the equivalent of 2,500 human food products in a single day, with a female laying between 40 to 80 eggs.
Efforts are ongoing to control the locust population and mitigate the potential impact on agricultural production in Kyrgyzstan.
