Surviving Agriculture of Pakistan

Pakistan, an agrarian country, has long been dependent on agriculture for its economic growth and food security. Over 60% of the population is involved in agriculture, with crops like wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane being the primary products. However, the sector has been facing challenges in recent years, with one of the most significant threats being climate change.

The country has experienced extreme weather events, including unpredictable rainfall patterns, floods, and heatwaves. These changes in the climate have led to reduced water availability, a crucial factor for crop cultivation in Pakistan, which relies heavily on irrigation from the Indus River system. Over the past few decades, Pakistan has seen a consistent decrease in the availability of water for agriculture due to the melting of glaciers in the northern mountains, a decrease in snowfall, and the overuse of water resources.

As a result, farmers have struggled to maintain the same level of crop yields. The lack of consistent water supply during crucial growing seasons, combined with the increasing frequency of droughts and floods, has led to a decline in the cultivation of major crops. Wheat production, for instance, has decreased significantly, as fluctuating temperatures and irregular rainfall disrupt the planting and harvesting cycles. Rice and cotton, which are highly water-intensive crops, have also suffered as water scarcity has worsened. Furthermore, pests and diseases, which are often exacerbated by rising temperatures, have become more prevalent, damaging crops and reducing yields.

Another impact of climate change is the increasing intensity of heatwaves. Pakistan has seen some of the highest temperatures on record in recent years, with extreme heat stressing both crops and livestock. Prolonged exposure to these high temperatures reduces crop productivity and increases evaporation rates, further depleting the water supply needed for irrigation. This heat also puts the health and productivity of the agricultural labor force at risk.

The government of Pakistan, along with international organizations, has initiated various programs to address the impact of climate change on agriculture, such as promoting drought-resistant crop varieties, improving water management systems, and encouraging climate-resilient farming practices. However, the full extent of the damage caused by climate change requires more urgent action, including long-term policies focused on sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation strategies. Despite these efforts, climate change continues to present a significant challenge to Pakistan’s agricultural sector, with far-reaching implications for food security and the economy.

The writer is Taimoor Altaf, Twice Qualified CCE-2013