Climate Change: Decline in Agricultural Production in Balochistan, Farmers Face Severe Hardships

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Report by: Murtaza Zaib Zehri

The impact of climate change has become increasingly evident in Balochistan, with the agricultural sector bearing the brunt of the damage. Extreme heat, water shortages, and reduced rainfall have negatively affected crop and fruit production across various regions of the province.

This decline in agricultural output is not only creating economic hardships for farmers but is also having a deep impact on the overall economy of the province.

In Kan Mehterzai, an area of Pishin district known for its apple production, there has been a drastic reduction in output in recent years. Muhammad Ayub, an experienced farmer who has been cultivating sweet and juicy apples for years, shared his concerns with Balochistan24.

Ayub expressed his frustration, saying, “Due to severe water shortages and a lack of rainfall, our land is becoming barren. Apple trees need a lot of water, but now there’s neither rain nor snow, and the production has been reduced to less than half.”

He explained that he once produced thousands of tons of apples, generating a healthy income, but now the situation has deteriorated to the point where he can’t even cover his expenses from the crop’s sale.

“Without enough water, we can’t fully irrigate our crops, and as a result, the apples become small and weak. This year, I suffered losses worth millions,” Ayub added.

Apart from Kan Mehterzai, other regions in Balochistan are also suffering from the effects of climate change.

In Zhob district, wheat and maize farmers face similar challenges due to water shortages. Abdul Rauf, a farmer from Zhob, told Balochistan24, “Our crops rely on rainfall, and when there’s a lack of rain, wheat and maize crops fail. Over the past few years, rainfall has been almost nonexistent, leading to a more than 50% reduction in our production.”

The situation is no different in the Makran Division of Balochistan. Date production in areas like Panjgur and Turbat has also been affected.

Bismillah Baloch, a farmer from Turbat, shared with Balochistan24, “The date palms are wilting due to water scarcity and intense heat. Our lands have become hard, and we are unable to provide timely water to our crops, which is impacting their quality.”

Farmers say that climate change has not only led to reduced rainfall but has also extended the periods of extreme heat, which affects the growth cycles of crops and fruits.

Noor Ahmed, a grape farmer from Mastung, stated, “Grape vines cannot tolerate excessive heat, but over the past few years, the duration of the heat has increased, damaging our vineyards.”

Farmers warn that if the government and relevant authorities do not take timely action, Balochistan’s agricultural sector could be completely devastated. They emphasize the need for modern irrigation systems, the construction of dams, and training on climate-resilient farming practices.

Expert Opinion on Declining Agricultural Production in Balochistan

Experts agree that water scarcity, exacerbated by climate change, is the main reason for the significant drop in agricultural output in Balochistan.

Agricultural experts state that the lack of rainfall and snow has led to a drastic decline in underground water levels, making it difficult for farmers to irrigate their crops properly. This is particularly evident in the decreased production of sweet and juicy apples, which depend heavily on adequate water supply.

Moreover, rising temperatures due to climate change have affected crop growth cycles, reducing both the quantity and quality of produce.

Government and International Reports

Several government and international reports highlight the alarming effects of climate change on Balochistan’s agriculture.

A 2022 report by the Government of Balochistan revealed that 60% of the province is suffering from severe water shortages, with underground water levels dropping further each year. The report cited inadequate water resource management and climate change as key reasons for the agricultural sector’s struggles.

Similarly, a 2023 report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) pointed out that rainfall in Balochistan’s arid regions has decreased by 30%, putting the agricultural economy in crisis. The report particularly mentioned a decline in the production of apples, grapes, dates, and wheat.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) also reported that average temperatures in Pakistan’s southern regions have increased by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius. This rise in temperature is detrimental to crops, especially in Balochistan’s dry and semi-arid areas.

Balochistan Government’s Decision to Develop a Climate Change Policy

In response to these challenges, the Government of Balochistan has decided to formulate a comprehensive policy to combat climate change. Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti announced this important step during a speech in the provincial assembly.

He emphasized that climate change has severely affected the province’s agricultural, water, and economic situation, calling for urgent and concrete measures to address the crisis.

In his speech, the Chief Minister said, “The geography and climatic conditions of Balochistan make it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Reduced agricultural production, water scarcity, and rising temperatures are affecting both the people and the economy.”

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