KP Livestock at Risk as Lumpy Skin and Foot-and-Mouth Diseases Spread

PESHAWAR: Lumpy skin disease and foot-and-mouth disease are reportedly spreading rapidly among livestock in several parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), particularly Peshawar, prompting concern among livestock farmers and calls for immediate government intervention.

The Livestock Farmers Welfare Association Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has expressed serious concern over the spread of the diseases, saying livestock owners are facing difficulties due to the unavailability of vaccines and essential veterinary services.

The association warned that failure to contain the situation promptly could result in large-scale livestock deaths and a decline in milk and meat production, potentially leading to shortages of both commodities across the province.

A delegation led by the association’s provincial president, Muhammad Asif Khan Awan, met Peshawar Livestock Director Dr Iftikhar Alam to discuss the situation. The delegation briefed the official on the spread of the diseases, the shortage of vaccines and the problems being faced by livestock farmers.

Joint Secretary Noor-ul-Wahab and Sohail Khan were also part of the delegation.

Dr Iftikhar Alam assured the delegation that necessary measures would be taken to protect livestock from the diseases and address the concerns of farmers.

The association has called on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister, chief secretary, secretary livestock and special assistant for livestock to ensure adequate vaccine supplies across the province.

It also demanded the deployment of mobile veterinary teams and the launch of an emergency vaccination campaign in affected areas to prevent further spread of the diseases.

The association warned that if timely vaccines and veterinary facilities were not provided to livestock owners, farmers would reserve the right to stage large-scale protests.

ALSO READ: Can AI Help Protect Lives, Promote Peace? KP Conference to Explore