By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD  – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a drought alert following significantly below-average rainfall across the country, with some regions experiencing up to a 62% shortfall, according to AFP.

The alarming deficit has raised concerns about water availability, agriculture, and food security in the coming months.

According to the PMD’s latest report, several provinces, including Sindh and Balochistan, have received drastically reduced precipitation levels, exacerbating already arid conditions. The department has warned that if the dry spell continues, it could lead to severe drought conditions, impacting millions of people, livestock, and crops.

Regions Most Affected

The data reveals that southern parts of Pakistan, particularly Sindh and Balochistan, have been the hardest hit, recording a 62% decline in rainfall compared to normal levels. Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have also witnessed a significant shortfall, although less severe. The reduced rainfall has lowered river flows, affecting irrigation and drinking water supply.

Implications for Agriculture and Food Security

Experts warn that the prolonged dry conditions could severely impact agriculture, particularly wheat, sugarcane, and cotton production, which are crucial to Pakistan’s economy. Water reservoirs, including the Tarbela and Mangla dams, are already showing decreased levels, posing a threat to hydropower generation and irrigation-dependent farming.

“The situation is concerning, as continued drought conditions can lead to a severe impact on crop yields, food prices, and overall economic stability,” said Dr. Muhammad Hanif, a senior meteorologist at PMD.

Government and Relief Measures

In response to the crisis, the government has urged farmers to adopt water conservation techniques and use drought-resistant crop varieties. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also been directed to coordinate with provincial authorities to monitor the situation and implement emergency response strategies if needed.

Meanwhile, experts emphasize the need for long-term climate adaptation measures, such as improving water storage capacity, promoting efficient irrigation systems, and enhancing afforestation efforts to counteract the effects of climate change.

Forecast and Future Outlook

The PMD has predicted that the current dry spell could persist in the coming weeks, with no significant rainfall expected in the immediate future. However, meteorologists remain hopeful that the monsoon season later this year could help alleviate the drought conditions if it brings sufficient rainfall.

With Pakistan already vulnerable to climate change-induced disasters, experts stress the urgency of taking preventive measures to mitigate the impacts of droughts and ensure sustainable water management practices across the country.