Pakistan Experiencing 30% Water Shortage for Sowing Season
Published on: April 4, 2024.
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Pakistan Faces Water Shortage Threatening Rice and Cotton Crops
Pakistan is currently experiencing a significant water shortage of 30 percent at the beginning of the sowing season for cash crops, specifically rice and cotton, according to the Indus River System Authority (IRSA). This shortage is a result of lower-than-normal winter snowfall in the northern glacier region of Pakistan, which has affected the catchment areas of the Indus and Jhelum Rivers used for irrigation.
Kharif crops, including rice, maize, sugarcane, and cotton, are typically sown in April and require a wet and warm climate with high levels of rainfall. However, due to climate change and its impact on the country’s glaciers, there was less snowfall than normal, directly impacting the availability of water for these crops during the summer season.
The water shortage is expected to improve as monsoon rains arrive later in the season. However, the meteorological department has forecasted higher-than-normal temperatures during the monsoon season, which adds uncertainty to the situation.
Pakistan’s agriculture sector is the largest contributor to the country’s economy, accounting for around 24 percent of its GDP. However, the sector has faced criticism for its water inefficiency.
According to Muhammad Azam Khan, an assistant researcher with IRSA, this water shortfall will require authorities to better plan and utilize the available water resources. Efficient water management will be crucial to ensure optimal utilization of the allotted water for the crops.
Pakistan, with a population of over 250 million, has been grappling with the adverse effects of climate change, including shifting and unpredictable weather patterns. The devastating floods in 2022, attributed to climate change, severely impacted Pakistan’s cotton crop, affecting more than 30 million people.
Source: https://www.zawya.com
