Desertification in Pakistan, Challenges and Opportunities

Pakistan is experiencing one of the diverse kinds of weather patterns for the last three decades. Overall, the climate change in the region has affected the eco balance of Pakistan. Experiencing the drought in Thar desert (Province of Sindh in Southern Pakistan) in 2001-2004, followed by major Earthquake of 2005 (7.6 Richter scale) and then recurring flash floods of 2010 and 11 has motivated the global scientist to research the causal effects of these climatic changes and related hazards. The paper discusses in detail the effects of climate change with particular emphasis on desertification. It elaborates on desertification profile and its contours with detail. After carrying out the analysis of desertification and its causes, the paper reviewed different kinds of programs and initiatives which have been proved very effective in the past in curtailing desertification. The paper proposes these programs and initiatives can be used in future by other communities which are vulnerable to desertification with a view to tackle the issue effectively.