Uzbekistan Launches Large-Scale Fight Against Moroccan Locust

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Outbreaks of the Moroccan locust have been detected in several regions of Uzbekistan, including Kashkadarya Region, Surkhandarya Region, Samarkand Region, and Jizzakh Region. Currently, the pests are at an early stage of development, allowing specialists to act quickly to eliminate the population before the onset of mass migration.

According to the relevant inspection under the Cabinet of Ministers, chemical treatments have already been conducted over more than 3,600 hectares. More than 22,000 hectares remain under constant monitoring. Overall, authorities plan to protect around 651,800 hectares nationwide this season.

A strong technical fleet has been deployed for the campaign, including nearly 200 tractors equipped with sprayers and over 1,000 units of specialized machinery.

The locust control operations are conducted around the clock by approximately 700 specialists organized into operational units.

While about 200 locust species exist in Uzbekistan, only 6–8 species pose a real threat to agriculture each year. Authorities emphasized that field treatments are provided free of charge to farmers and local residents.

Residents are urged to promptly report new locust outbreaks by calling 1288 or 71 202 10 00 to ensure timely response and prevent damage to crops.