Efforts intensified against over-use of pesticides

Efforts have been intensified by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and the General Secretariat of Municipalities to warn farmers about the excessive use of pesticides.

Pesticides have been used by farmers for so long that some think that over-doing it may protect their crops from insects, an official said yesterday.

"We have been conducting several campaigns to make people aware of the proper ways to wash fruit and vegetables with detergents to remove any residue of pesticides," said Dr Abdullah Abu Ruwaida, head of Public Health at the secretariat.

"It has become more important to make sure that farmers are using the right, safe, non-chemical pesticides for the protection of their crops and avoid harming the environment."

The secretariat is working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in conducting awareness campaigns to ensure farmers are not over-spraying their crops.

A source said the ministry has been constantly providing farmers with information on how to protect their crops and use pesticides.

"The ministry has always provided the pesticides and fertilisers and has experts in agriculture and irrigation who are always available to help farmers whenever they confront any troubles with their plants," he said.