DURING a frank chat with a friend, I was surprised to know that every time it rains, Tharparkar turns lush green and as pleasant and picturesque as any spot across the famed Northern Areas of the country. However, rains in the region are sporadic, with clouds rarely turning kind to the region that has to continue with a persistent harsh climate.

Reforestation efforts are being made to establish climate-resilient communities in the region. One such effort initiated by a non-governmental organisation (NGO) aims at utilising the exotic knowledge of the indigenous people, especially women, to plant trees that can stand the climate of the region. Many species of trees have been planted already.

Additionally, the NGO has been raising awareness about environmental conservation and best practices exercised worldwide to increase sustainability. Tharparkar desert has the potential for establishing nurseries as a testing ground for numerous bio-saline culture and aquaculture studies. These studies are significant across Pakistan and have a positive impact on food security.

One such nursery has already been established and it has been supporting local agriculture. Vegetables cultivated by women are delivered to marketplaces in Karachi. The harvested waste, on the other hand, is being used as fodder for livestock, making it a win-win situation.

Fazal ur Rehman Qazi
Karachi

Published in Dawn, December 2nd, 2023