I think that there seems to be some confusion in the media and among people in general about ‘green’ developments in agriculture. The fact is that, while such plans and schemes are definitely showing agricultural development, they are not at all ‘green’ or environment friendly or sustainable. The farmers will certainly benefit in the short term from availability of more large-scale irrigation , genetically engineered seeds, strong chemical fertilisers, pesticides etc. But what about the long term? What will be the effect of these developments on the already depleted and damaged lands? And on the public health and local environment and atmosphere?
Has anybody carried out a serious environmental impact study of these projects or consulted local people and environmental organisations and experts? We must urgently try to understand the difference between general development vs sustainable and green practices. If not, the country might soon reach a complete disaster point.
Nayab Ahmad
Rawalpindi