Global Soil Day: AUP seminar spotlights soil and water as life’s source

PESHAWAR: The Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, Agricultural University Peshawar (AUP) Tuesday organized a seminar on “Soil and Water: A Source of Life” to mark Global Soil Day for awareness about the role of soil and water in sustaining life and environmental well-being.

The event was organized in collaboration with the Directorate General of Soil and Conservation, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Jahan Bakht was the chief guest and former dean of the university Prof Dr Riaz Khattak was the guest of honour.

Dr Jahan Bakht emphasized the role of soil in ensuring food security, highlighting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the first province to formulate a comprehensive food security policy.Professor Dr. Riaz Khattak, Deputy Director of Soil and Water Conservation Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and District Officer Soil and Water Conservation Department Buner, Dr. Furqan Allah, spoke about the importance of soil.

Vice Chancellor Dr. Jahan Bakht underscored the challenges posed by climate change on agricultural lands. He noted a gradual decline in fertility due to reduced rainfall, increased soil erosion from torrential rains, and the transformation of land into deserts.

Dr. Bakht urged efforts to address these issues. He stressed the importance of planting more trees to combat environmental pollution and prevent soil degradation.Dr. Bakht called for expert consideration of factors affecting soil health.

The Vice-Chancellor extended his appreciation to the Chairman of the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, Prof Dr Muhammad Sharif and all participants.In the concluding session, participants were briefed on the significance of soil and water.