Islamabad, Dec 19: As the country continues to experience an extended dry spell this winter, December has also passed without any significant rainfall, leaving many areas struggling with the widespread impacts of drought.
The ongoing lack of rain has heightened concerns about water shortages, decreased agricultural output, and worsening health conditions such as respiratory issues, skin ailments, and viral infections exacerbated by increased dust and low humidity.
In rain-fed regions, farming communities face water scarcity and the harsh realities of shifting weather patterns.
The Potohar region, in particular—known for its stunning landscapes and historic importance, including cities like Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad—relies entirely on rainfall for agriculture.
Farmers in this area face a silent yet serious threat to their livelihoods, endangering their way of life. Experts warn that without proactive measures and adequate preparedness, the dry spell’s challenges could intensify, posing risks to public health and economic stability.
Speaking to APP, Muhammad Saleem Shaikh, Climate Change and Environmental Policy Specialist and spokesperson for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, highlighted that the ministry has initiated several measures to mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture, particularly in rain-fed regions. These areas are especially vulnerable to erratic weather, droughts, and flooding caused by climate change.
One significant initiative is the Recharge Pakistan Programme, launched in collaboration with national and international partners to bolster climate resilience in rain-fed areas. This program emphasizes water management, rainwater harvesting, and ecosystem restoration to address challenges like irregular rainfall, droughts, and floods that threaten agriculture, livelihoods, and ecosystems.
