Punjab is called the food basket of Pakistan. Senior officer crops such as wheat, rice, sugarcane, maize, and cotton are grown here. However, over
An illustrative image related to: Farmers struggle with climate shifts, highlighting key aspects of the story. | Image source: The Express Tribune
Farmers struggle with climate shifts
Punjab is called the food basket of Pakistan. Senior officer crops such as wheat, rice, sugarcane, maize, and cotton are grown here. However, over the past 15 to 20 years, Punjab's climate has changed rapidly. Rainfall patterns have become irregular, heat has intensified, and winters are becoming shorter and less cold, putting farmers under stress and significantly reducing crop yields.
According to seasonal outlook reports from the Pakistan Meteorological Division, the average temperature in Punjab has been rising since 2000, while rainfall has become unpredictable. Heat intensity and duration have increased, and winters have shortened, disrupting the natural crop cycles.
Research by the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council shows that rising temperatures are shortening the expansion period of crops. The study indicates that an rise of 1 to 4 degrees Celsius could reduce wheat production by 9 per cent to 30 per cent.
According to the Global Food Directive Research Institute, more than 80 per cent of farmers in Punjab are experiencing the effects of climate change. Rainfall patterns in central Punjab have become unstable, with some years seeing heavy rains and others facing severe drought. Unexpected rains in April have affected wheat harvesting, while heavy rains in July and August pose risks to cotton and rice crops.
Dr Anjum Ali, Executive Member of the Punjab Agriculture Research Board, stated that climate change in Punjab has now taken the form of a "climate shift," where the traditional monsoon cycle has changed and rainfall is occurring in shorter but more intense periods. He further stated that changing temperature and rainfall patterns are also altering cropping trends, especially in central Punjab, where water-intensive crops like sugarcane, rice, and maize are increasing, while cotton cultivation is declining.
To address these challenges, several changes are being introduced in the agricultural system. Short-duration seed varieties, modern breeding programs, and the use of micronutrients and potash are being promoted to help crops withstand harsh climatic conditions. He also observed that pest attacks are increasing due to higher temperatures accelerating their reproduction.
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