While the people of Pakistan are yet again braving severe heatwaves, the theme of this year’s World Environment Day (which falls today) – ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience’ – is not just a call to action but a dire warning.

Experts predict that by next year, nearly three-quarters of the world’s population may be affected by drought. For Pakistan, the situation isn’t just alarming; it’s a full-blown crisis. Land degradation here is advancing at an alarming rate, threatening the livelihoods and food security of millions. In 2018 alone, economic losses from heatwaves amounted to approximately $9.5 billion. This stark reality demands immediate, decisive action to restore our landscapes and build resilience against future environmental challenges.

Desertification in Pakistan is a multifaceted issue driven by various factors. The country’s arid and semi-arid climate exacerbates the situation, but human activities significantly contribute to the problem. The primary culprits include deforestation and vegetation loss, with forest cover at a mere 3-4 per cent of the total landmass, far below the required 20-25 per cent.

Deforestation exposes the soil to wind and water erosion and contributes to global warming. Overgrazing and livestock pressure, particularly unregulated grazing, have devastated ecosystems, reducing soil fertility and increasing erosion. Water erosion, intensified by erratic rains, flash floods, and melting snow in the Indus Basin, causes significant soil erosion and sedimentation, decreasing the efficiency and lifespan of reservoirs.

Wind erosion affects around 3-5 million hectares, particularly in Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. It is not just an environmental issue but a health and pollution problem. Periodic droughts and floods result in significant vegetation loss and soil degradation. Droughts hamper groundwater recharge, while floods wash away fertile topsoil and crops.

The 2014-2017 drought in Pakistan led to a significant loss of livestock, with an estimated 2.2 million people and 7.2 million heads of livestock affected, causing severe food insecurity and economic........

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