Water scarcity undermining agricultural productivity
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has urged for prompt and continuous initiatives to safeguard land and natural resources for future generations.
In her address on the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, the Chief Minister cautioned that the unrestrained impacts of climate change, deforestation, and increasing water scarcity are swiftly diminishing agricultural capacity and deteriorating soil fertility throughout Punjab. “Drought is not merely a layer of sand; it signifies an impending environmental crisis,” she stated.
The Chief Minister emphasised her government’s dedication to environmental conservation by announcing that the Punjab government has designated specific monies in the 2025-26 budget for geotagging water-scarce regions.
She stated that new filtration plants will be established and current ones will be refurbished to guarantee access to clean water throughout the province.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasised Punjab’s leadership in climate action, referencing the implementation of Pakistan’s inaugural comprehensive Climate Policy designed to tackle the challenges of environmental degradation.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to enhance the Plant for Pakistan initiative, aimed at reforesting desolate areas. Each tree represents vitality in arid settings. “We will not permit the earth to suffocate; altering our habits is the sole method to transform the environment,” she stated.
