DESERTIFICATION DYNAMICS AND ITS CONTROL MECHANISMS IN SEMIARID AREAS OF PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY OF DISTRICT KARAK PAKISTAN IFFAT
Loading...
Date
2011
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
INSTITUTE OF GEOGRAPHY, URBAN & REGIONAL PLANNING
Abstract
Desertification has emerged as a major environmental problem during last few decades. Due to its serious implications on food security it has attracted global recognition. Significant attention is being given to its mitigation both at government and non-governmental levels. Some of the efforts carried out by state sponsored agencies and NGOs have turned into success stories. However, it has been noticed that if the problem persists for a long time due to lack of attention then land restoration becomes ecologically and financially expensive. Therefore its earlier diagnosis and treatment can not only reduce the cost but is also beneficial for human welfare.
Pakistan has substantial land susceptible to desertification due to geographical factors such as topography and aridity and social issues like rapid population growth and socio-economic changes. The pressure on land often leads to its un-sustainable land use leading to desertification. Millions of poor farm households and their livelihoods in arid and semiarid areas of the country are prone to risks and uncertainties associated with desertification and land degradation.
Inhabitants of the areas affected by desertification try to adapt to changing environment and cope with emerging problems within their own limited knowledge and capacity. Some of the adaptation strategies like social values and norms are built in the traditions of the society. In addition, farmers try to learn from their experiences. Their efforts need to be supported as much as possible. Technology transfer and extension on conservation practices and selection of suitable and better adopted plant varieties and livestock breeds could be of substantial help in that direction. Further, financial assistance through farm credits could also help poor farmers to invest in their lands for improving its productivity.