Fact Check: "Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry reported that locusts were present on nearly two-thirds of 114,000 hectares of agricultural land, with over 74,000 hectares already treated with pesticides as of August 2023."
What We Know
The claim regarding the locust infestation in Kyrgyzstan is supported by multiple reports from credible sources. The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of Kyrgyzstan indicated that surveys conducted across 114,000 hectares of agricultural land revealed that locusts were present on nearly two-thirds of this area. Specifically, more than 74,000 hectares have already been treated with pesticides to combat this infestation (Kyrgyzstan Urges Regional Unity to Combat Major Locust ...). This information aligns with reports from other news agencies, confirming the scale of the infestation and the response efforts undertaken by the government (74000 hectares of agricultural land treated from locusts).
Analysis
The evidence provided by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry is credible as it comes from an official government source directly involved in managing agricultural resources and pest control. The ministry's statements are corroborated by independent news outlets, which reported similar figures regarding the area affected by locusts and the extent of pesticide application (FAO provided special vehicle to Kyrgyzstan for locust control).
Moreover, the reports highlight the seriousness of the locust threat, noting that these pests can devastate crops rapidly under favorable conditions. The proactive measures taken, such as the treatment of over 74,000 hectares, indicate a coordinated response to mitigate the potential damage to food security in the region. The collaboration with neighboring countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan further emphasizes the regional approach to managing this agricultural crisis (Kyrgyzstan Urges Regional Unity to Combat Major Locust ...).
While the sources appear reliable, it is important to note that some reports may have varying figures due to the dynamic nature of pest control efforts and ongoing assessments of the situation. However, the consistency across multiple reports strengthens the validity of the claim.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry reported locusts on nearly two-thirds of 114,000 hectares of agricultural land, with over 74,000 hectares treated with pesticides as of August 2023, is accurate. The information is supported by credible sources and reflects the ongoing efforts to manage a significant agricultural threat in Kyrgyzstan.
