Balochistan, a province in south-western Pakistan, is known for its vast grazing lands and a significant livestock industry. However, the region is facing formidable challenges due to the adverse effects of global issues like climate change and heatwaves. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns and extreme weather events have disrupted the delicate balance of the ecosystem severely impacting the livestock sector.
One of the major repercussions of climate change in Balochistan is the declining availability of suitable pastures for grazing. Increased temperatures and prolonged droughts have led to reduction in grass growth and the desertification of once-fertile lands. As a result, livestock owners are facing various challenges in sourcing adequate fodder, affecting the health and productivity of their animals.
Climate change has exacerbated water scarcity in Balochistan, leading to a significant decline in water availability for livestock. Dwindling groundwater reserves and irregular rainfall patterns have forced herders to travel longer distances in search of water sources. Moreover, the limited available water often suffers from reduced quality due to contamination, posing a threat to the health of livestock and increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
Rising temperatures in Balochistan have subjected livestock to heightened heat stress, negatively impacting on their productivity and overall well-being. Heat stress reduces feed intake, impairs reproduction and compromises the immune system making animals more susceptible to diseases.
Climate change has altered the patterns of infectious diseases affecting livestock in Balochistan both in ruler and urban areas. The current Changing weather conditions have facilitated the proliferation of diseases such as ticks and mosquitoes which transmit various diseases including tick fever and bluetongue. In addition, increased humidity and heavy rainfall have also led to the emergence of new diseases previously unseen in the region threatening livestock’s health and productivity.
Way Forward:
Balochistan needs to focus on diversifying livelihood options for livestock owners to reduce their dependence on grazing lands and to cope with the challenges posed by climate change. Promoting alternative income-generating activities such as poultry farming, dairy production and horticulture can help mitigate the impacts of declining pasture availability.
Efficient water resource management is crucial to address water scarcity and ensure its availability for livestock. This can be achieved through the construction of water storage facilities including small reservoirs and water ponds as well as the implementation of water conservation practices such as rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation. Educating livestock owners about responsible water usage and promoting the use of efficient watering systems can also contribute to sustainable water management.
Investing in rangeland restoration and management programs are vital to combat desertification and enhance pasture availability. This can involve the implementation of sustainable grazing practices, reseeding of degraded areas and the introduction of drought-tolerant forage species. Encouraging rotational grazing systems and establishing community-based rangeland management initiatives can help ensure the long-term health and productivity of grazing lands.
Promoting the use of climate-resilient livestock breeds that are well-adapted to local environmental conditions is essential. These breeds possess inherent traits such as heat tolerance, disease resistance and the ability to thrive on limited water and forage resources. Supporting breeding programs and providing farmers with access to improved breeds can enhance the resilience of livestock to climate change impacts.
To effectively address the changing disease patterns, it is crucial to strengthen veterinary services in Balochistan. This includes enhancing disease surveillance, establishing early warning systems and ensuring the availability of vaccines treatments for livestock diseases.
The impact of climate change on Balochistan’s livestock sector is undeniable, with declining pasture availability, water scarcity, heat stress and shifting disease patterns posing significant challenges. However, implantation of comprehensive set of strategies focused on diversification, water resource management, rangeland restoration, climate-resilient breeds and strengthened veterinary services. Balochistan can chart a way forward that ensures a sustainable future for its livestock industry. The province can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and protect the livelihoods of its livestock owners by prioritizing resilience and adaptation.
Article written by Naeem Barech – an independent researcher.
