Locusts attack: Officials pin hopes on swarms migration pattern.

LAHORE -- The swarms of locusts have reached central parts of Punjab from its southern areas while authorities are betting on experts' opinion that these insects are here for only a short stay and will fly to new pastures soon.

First reported in Rahim Yar Khan district bordering Sindh two months ago in south of the the province, locusts swarms can now be seen devouring crops and other vegetation in Sahiwal, Okara and Pakpattan districts since Saturday.

Despite Punjab plant protection authorities claims of large-scale spray of insecticides and other measures taken to 'successfully repulse' the attack, the swarms have reached central Punjab districts. It is being feared the menace could spread further to the wheat-growing areas of the province and damage the standing crops there.

A report from Sahiwal says that swarms of migrant locusts have been spotted in different villages of Chichawatni tehsil. The affected villages of include 153/9L, 154/9L, 155/9L, Aukanwala and adjoining areas. The Sahiwal agriculture department has started an awareness campaign to educate farmers on how to control the harmful insects.

Commissioner Ahsan Waheed is reported to have directed the agriculture extension...