Desertification in Pakistan, Challenges and Opportunities

Pakistan is experiencing one of the diverse kinds of weather patterns for the last three decades. Overall, the climate change inthe region has affected the eco balance of Pakistan. Experiencing the drought in Thar desert (Province of Sindh in SouthernPakistan) in 2001-2004, followed by major Earthquake of 2005 (7.6 Richter scale) and then recurring flash floods of 2010 and 11has motivated the global scientist to research the causal effects of these climatic changes and related hazards. The paper discussesin detail the effects of climate change with particular emphasis on desertification. It elaborates on desertification profile and itscontours with detail. After carrying out the analysis of desertification and its causes, the paper reviewed different kinds ofprograms and initiatives which have been proved very effective in the past in curtailing desertification. The paper proposes theseprograms and initiatives can be used in future by other communities which are vulnerable to desertification with a view to tacklethe issue effectively.

Keywords:

Desertification , Deforestation , Hazard , Drought , Wind erosion