Pakistan is facing a growing crisis as drought alerts have been issued due to prolonged below-normal rainfall over the past three months. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that conditions may worsen, particularly in drought-prone areas, affecting millions of lives and the country’s agricultural economy.
Current Situation: Persistent Dry Weather and Drought Warnings
Rainfall Deficiency Across Regions
Over the last three months (September to November 2024), Pakistan has experienced unusually low rainfall. In many areas, rain has fallen below 1.0 mm for an extended duration, resulting in an alarming number of consecutive dry days (CDDs). The PMD reported:
- 205 CDDs in Nokundi (Balochistan)—the highest in the country.
- 95 CDDs in regions like Shaheed Benazirabad (Sindh) and Bahawalnagar (Punjab)—the lowest among affected areas.
This persistent dry spell has created mild to moderate drought conditions in various provinces, including Sindh, Balochistan, and parts of Punjab.
Regions Affected by Drought
Specific areas in Sindh, such as Mohenjodaro, Larkana, Sukkur, Dadu, Hyderabad, and Sanghar, have reported mild meteorological drought conditions. Meanwhile, Balochistan regions like Dalbandin, Turbat, Jiwani, and Panjgur face moderate drought situations. Even Punjab has not been spared, with the Potohar region, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and neighboring areas affected.
Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
Agricultural Challenges
The lack of rain has created severe challenges for farmers, particularly those dependent on rainfed agriculture. Crops grown during the Rabi season, including wheat and barley, are at significant risk. The limited supply of irrigation water is exacerbating the crisis, leading to:
- Water stress in cultivated areas.
- Potential crop failures, resulting in reduced yields.
- Threats to food security across the country.
Livestock in Danger
The drought also poses a grave risk to livestock, an essential livelihood source for rural communities. Shortages of fodder and water could result in the deterioration of animal health, leading to economic losses for farmers.
Climate Factors: A Warning for the Future
Changing Weather Patterns
The PMD has linked the drought to below-normal rainfall and above-average temperatures, both of which are expected to persist in the coming months. These factors indicate that the drought could become more severe, particularly in Sindh and Punjab, where agricultural output is vital to the national economy.
Environmental Impacts
Prolonged dry conditions may lead to desertification in some areas, further reducing arable land. This situation calls for urgent measures to combat climate change and adapt to its impacts on vulnerable regions.
Mitigation and Recommendations
Preemptive Measures by Stakeholders
The PMD has urged relevant authorities and stakeholders to take immediate action to mitigate the effects of the drought. Key recommendations include:
- Developing water-saving techniques to optimize limited resources.
- Building infrastructure for water storage and management.
- Introducing drought-resistant crop varieties to farmers.
Advice for Farmers
Farmers and agriculturists are encouraged to:
- Stay updated with weather forecasts from the PMD.
- Shift towards more sustainable farming practices.
- Reduce water-intensive activities and consider alternative irrigation methods, such as drip irrigation.
How Communities Can Prepare
Community-Level Actions
Communities can play a significant role in addressing the drought crisis by:
- Conserving water resources in households and agriculture.
- Collaborating with local authorities to plan for drought-resilient infrastructure.
- Raising awareness about the impacts of climate change and promoting collective action.
Government Support and International Aid
The government needs to step up efforts by allocating funds to drought relief programs, ensuring the availability of food and water in affected areas, and seeking international assistance where necessary.
Looking Ahead
As drought conditions intensify, the urgency to adapt to changing climatic conditions has never been greater. Proactive measures today can mitigate long-term damage to Pakistan’s agriculture, economy, and the well-being of millions of citizens. Farmers, authorities, and communities must work together to build resilience against future droughts.
FAQs
- What causes drought in Pakistan?
Drought in Pakistan is primarily caused by below-normal rainfall, rising temperatures, and changing climatic patterns influenced by global warming. - Which areas are most affected by the drought?
Regions in Sindh (e.g., Sukkur, Hyderabad) and Balochistan (e.g., Turbat, Nokundi) are among the hardest hit by drought conditions. - How is the government addressing the drought?
The PMD advises preemptive measures, and the government is working on water conservation strategies and support for farmers in affected regions. - What can farmers do during a drought?
Farmers can adopt water-saving techniques, switch to drought-resistant crops, and stay informed via PMD weather updates. - What is the future outlook for droughts in Pakistan?
With continued climate change, droughts are expected to become more frequent and intense, necessitating sustainable management of water and agricultural resources.
