PESHAWAR: Former Secretary of the Pakistan Tobacco Board, Khan Faraz, has urged the government to take immediate action against climate change, emphasizing its detrimental effects on agriculture.
He highlighted that Pakistan is among the top ten countries most affected by climate change and natural disasters, which have significantly impacted the agricultural sector, leading to substantial losses in crops and livestock due to events such as floods and droughts.
During a recent discussion, Faraz called for effective strategies to address these vulnerabilities, including the establishment of early-warning systems and risk financing mechanisms. He pointed out that agriculture is crucial for Pakistan’s economy, being vital for food security and employment. The need for government intervention is critical, as climate change poses a severe threat to the livelihoods of farmers and the overall agricultural framework of the country.
In parallel discussions, experts stressed the importance of creating awareness among farmers about adapting to changing climatic conditions. Initiatives such as Punjab’s Smog Mitigation Plan were highlighted as essential steps towards combating climate challenges. The collective efforts from various stakeholders are deemed necessary to formulate a robust response to climate-related issues and ensure a sustainable agricultural future for Pakistan.