Persimmon orchards in Swat, one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's key fruit-producing regions, have suffered extensive losses following erratic weather and widespread insect infestations. The damage has affected around 2,023 hectares (5,000 acres) of orchards, which typically produce about 20,000 tons of fruit annually. Farmers report crop destruction of up to 90%, leading to losses amounting to millions of rupees.
Ijaz Khan, a trader and orchard owner, said the season began with promising yields before pests and diseases took hold. "This year, the crop looked very promising, but insects and diseases have completely destroyed it. We invested nearly US$32,000 in our orchards, but now the total value of what remains barely reaches US$320. Our year-long efforts have gone to waste," he said.
Experts at the Agricultural Research Institute Mingora have begun field trials to protect persimmon trees and are advising farmers on pest management and orchard hygiene. Dr Fazal Mola, Principal Research Officer (Entomology), said that early action could still help prevent extensive losses. "If farmers apply timely sprays and adopt protective practices, they can save 70 to 80 per cent of their crop from pests without using harmful chemicals," he explained.
The damage follows irregular rainfall and high humidity that have disrupted Swat's normal fruiting cycle. Harvesting is currently underway, but traders report that market prices remain below expectations. Farmers say production costs are outpacing returns, putting their operations under pressure. A grower explained that while the cost of production stands at about 350 rupees (US$1.25) per kilogram, six- to seven-kilogram boxes are selling for only 250–300 rupees (US$0.90–US$1.05).
Persimmon farming in the region requires high upfront investment, and repeated poor seasons have left many growers facing financial hardship. The losses add to earlier crop damage affecting peaches, plums, and apricots in the same region.
Researchers warn that ongoing climate shifts and pest infestations pose continuing risks to future harvests. They recommend timely protective sprays, integrated pest management, and stronger institutional support to safeguard production and stabilize farmer income.
Source: Pakistan Today
