Wheat glut upsets purchase arrangements in Abohar

Raj Sadosh

Abohar, April 18

Contradicting the tall claims made by officials and the ruling party leaders, a sudden increase in arrival of wheat crop and improper arrangement have upset the purchase at the new grain market and other centres.

Several farmers complained of slow lifting in the grain market as well as rural purchase centers. Farmers and commission agents (arhtiyas) are equally facing a lot of trouble. No space in the market was available to unload more wheat produce.

A day after suffering defeat in Abohar constituency, AAP leaders changed the old working committee of the arhtiyas’ association by electing a new president. However, all such appointments were later disapproved and traders were asked to elect officials. Resultantly, another arhtiyas’ association emerged, which held a meeting with procurement agency officials to apprise them of tardy purchase and lifting arrangements. The administration had given instructions to expedite lifting, but to no avail.

Farmers said there was no solution to the problem of drinking water and stray bulls. Tractor-trailers can’t be parked due to glut and people using two-wheelers also have to park their vehicles at far-off places. It seems to be an uphill task for the administration to tackle lifting contractors.

Since the truck operators’ union elections are in a limbo due to a clash between two factions being supported by warring AAP leaders, availability of loading vehicles also stood affected. Officials concerned have reportedly assured stake holders to resolve their grievances soon.