Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain has warned that outbreaks of pyrilla and whitefly, driven by rising humidity, are spreading into southern sugarcane-growing areas and threatening yields. He chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad to coordinate a government response, urging immediate farmer action and mobilization of agricultural agencies to limit crop losses.
The meeting reviewed reports that pyrilla and whitefly infestations, previously concentrated in northern districts, have moved south this season and are causing significant damage to sugarcane. Officials described the situation as serious and called for accelerated monitoring and control measures to prevent wider spread.
Agricultural experts at the meeting explained how both pests attack the lower parts of sugarcane leaves, sucking plant sap and producing early yellow specks that progress to leaf drying. Pyrilla also excretes honeydew, which promotes sooty mould that coats leaves. Affected leaves lose photosynthetic capacity, weakening cane growth and sharply reducing yields.
The ministry announced it is mobilizing relevant departments and launching awareness campaigns to educate farmers on identification and management of these pests. Technical guidance and on‑the‑ground support will be provided through local agricultural extension services to ensure coordinated action across affected areas.
Farmers were strongly urged to inspect fields regularly, stay in close contact with extension officers, and apply recommended control measures without delay. Timely use of approved insecticides, including imidacloprid where appropriate, was recommended as part of integrated management. Officials warned that any delay in control could result in irrecoverable damage to the crop.
Rana Tanveer Hussain reassured farmers that the government is committed to providing the necessary support and emphasized that collective, prompt action is essential to protect sugarcane production from severe losses.
