With temperatures already reaching a daunting 45 degrees Celsius in many parts of Punjab, the province is bracing for three anticipated heatwaves over the next month, posing challenges for residents, animals, and administrators alike. The Meteorological Office forecasts further temperature spikes of six to eight degrees Celsius in the coming days, nearing record-breaking levels, according to Shahid Abbas, Lahore’s chief meteorologist.
The prolonged heatwaves, expected until mid-June with recurring peaks, particularly concern cities like Faisalabad and Sahiwal, where Friday saw temperatures hitting 45 degrees Celsius. While shorter hot spells are common, longer durations could exacerbate difficulties. The Meteorological Office has alerted relevant departments, urging proactive measures to mitigate heatwave impacts.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) claims readiness with medical camps, water points, and shaded areas planned in vulnerable areas like Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and Cholistan. However, on-ground reports from correspondents indicate discrepancies, noting a lack of visible preparations in affected districts.
Farmers are anxious about potential damage to early-sown cotton during its flowering stage due to excessive heat, necessitating additional water for maize and rice. Power shortages could further complicate irrigation efforts, impacting agricultural productivity. Despite challenges, the heatwave’s adverse effects may weaken pests, providing some relief to crop protection efforts.
In northern regions, the accelerated glacier melting due to rising temperatures has increased river water levels significantly. This has prompted the Indus River System Authority (Irsa) to address water shortages by ensuring adequate supplies to provinces, including Punjab, benefiting from increased reservoir levels compared to last year.
Bahawalpur and Rahim Yar Khan districts are already feeling the heat’s impact, with deserted streets and limited market activities during the day, while evening hours see a resurgence in customer activity, particularly at watermelon and sherbet vendors. Farmers in Rahim Yar Khan are cautious about cotton sowing and mango orchard health amidst rising temperatures, emphasizing the importance of proper irrigation practices during hot weather.
In Cholistan, shepherds and nomadic tribes have temporarily relocated their herds to canal-side villages in search of water until the onset of the monsoon in late July.
