How are changes in rainfall patterns and cold stress affecting crop yields in KP?

Climate change affects the entire province, but the major impact is in areas dependent on rainfall. For example, rainfall is needed specifically for the wheat crop.

If it’s not received at the time of sowing, moisture remains insufficient for germination — the process of a seed turning into a seedling. Excess rainfall during harvesting leads to losses.

If the same trend continues, wheat will be eliminated from the cropping system in the future, particularly in central and southern KP.

As world leaders gather in the UAE in the run-up to the COP28 summit, Dawn is speaking to experts to answer some pressing, everyday questions that are on people’s minds about climate change.

What are the repercussions of yield loss for farmers and consumers?

This is a matter of serious concern for a food-deficient province. Due to yield losses, the province will become food insecure, and our dependency on grain from Punjab and imports will increase.

Today, Professor Hamayoon Khan of Peshawar’s University of Agriculture explains the factors behind decreasing crops in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the steps needed to ensure food security.

Does any policy exist in KP to address the issue of decreasing crop yields?

Yes, policies do exist, but they are only on paper. To ensure food security in KP, the implementation of existing policies is needed.

What actions do you think should be taken to reverse this trend?

To reverse this trend, practical actions on the ground and mass awareness regarding smart agricultural practices among the farmer community are needed. We also need to irrigate southern parts of KP, especially Dera Ismail Khan and Lakki Marwat.

Published in Dawn, November 27th, 2023