Pakistan at risk of drought due to 'La Nina' effects: report

Pakistan is at risk of drought as the weather phenomenon ‘La Nina’ is expected to begin to impact the country in 2024, according to the report issued by the Food and Agriculture Organisation.

The report of the sub-organisation of the United Nations has added Pakistan among 20 countries facing the severe impact of climate change and warned that either at the end of 2024 or at the beginning of 2025, Pakistan would enter into severe weather conditions that could harm agriculture in the country.

It added that La Nina was not declared officially yet, but some countries were facing pre-impacts of the phenomena.

During August and September, large parts of West and Central Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan faced flood, while early signs of drought are evident in the southern parts of South America, including Argentina and Chile. 

Under the umbrella of prediction, the FAO issued an action and response plan to prevent the anticipated harm.

As per the recommendations, the organisation suggested providing tools and feed to the farmer before the planting season to prevent animals’ health.

It also emphasised the provision of chemicals to ensure a regular dipping regime.

La Nina could bring acute food insecurity in the area already affected by the extreme weather during El Nino in June 2023.