Pakistan faces 30% water scarcity for sowing season
Published on: April 4, 2024.
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Pakistan Faces 30% Water Shortage at Start of Cash Crop Season
Pakistan is currently grappling with a 30 percent water shortage at the beginning of the sowing season for cash crops like rice and cotton, according to the country’s water regulator. The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has attributed this shortage to below-average winter snowfall in the northern glacier region of Pakistan, which affects the catchment areas of the Indus and Jhelum Rivers used for irrigation.
The shortage of water is particularly concerning as April marks the sowing period for Kharif crops, including rice, maize, sugarcane, and cotton. These crops require a wet and warm climate with abundant rainfall. However, with the decreased snowfall due to climate change, the availability of water for summer crops has been impacted.
Muhammad Azam Khan, an assistant researcher at IRSA, highlighted the link between climate change and decreased snowfall. He emphasized that improved water management strategies are essential to mitigate the impact of the current shortage on crops.
Although the water shortage may ease with the arrival of monsoon rains later in the season, the meteorological department predicts higher-than-normal temperatures during the monsoon, further adding to the uncertainty.
Agriculture is a crucial sector in Pakistan’s economy, contributing approximately 24 percent to its GDP. However, it has faced criticism for its inefficient water usage. Hence, addressing the issue of water scarcity and developing effective water management strategies is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices in the country.
Pakistan, with its population exceeding 250 million, is no stranger to the significant effects of climate change. Erratic weather patterns and extreme events have become more frequent. In fact, the country experienced devastating floods in 2022, which affected over 30 million people and severely impacted the cotton crop. These events serve as a reminder of the urgent need to prioritize climate adaptation and mitigation measures in Pakistan.
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