Surviving drought

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has reported a significant drop in rainfall – by 40 per cent over the past four months. Moreover, there have been very erratic rainfall patterns in recent years, with the country lurching from monsoon deluges to drought-like conditions. This type of erratic weather is down to climate change and demands urgent and effective mitigation strategies. It is important for both national and local governments to work together to manage our water resources more effectively.

Agricultural productivity will also require climate-resilient investment such as growing drought-resistant crops, modern techniques for irrigation, and water sustainability. Important among these is improving the early warning systems associated with drought, reforesting and promoting conservation of the soil, creating awareness about saving and recylcing water and judiciously using this valuable resource for further management.

Maria Hameed

Karachi