Pakistan is also beginning to suffer from climate change, due to which cattle are being reported to die in large numbers. According to the reports, the Cholistan Desert, which has been suffering from drought for some time, is facing heatstroke.

The Livestock Department states that more than two hundred sheep and cattle have died due to water shortage and heatstroke in Cholistan while the ponds have dried up completely due to lack of rains, due to which locals are also deprived of drinking water which is the only source of water for them.

It has also seen that the local population seems to be migrating by loading goods on vehicles, while due to lack of water, the camel ship of Cholistan has also started slowing down and getting sick.

Adding to the issue of heat and lack of water, the blockage of canal water has also intensified in many areas including Rohjhan area, Wah Machka Chak Mitt.

In addition, due to untimely harvesting of crops, the only source of livelihood for the residents of rural areas, agriculture has been devastated. The stoves of farmers have become cold, and farmers are suffering from economic crisis. The people of Cholistan are now demanding timely assistance in terms of sustainable water supply, protection of agriculture farms and cattle.

In response to the situation, Additional Chief Secretary South Punjab Capt (retd) Saqib Zafar today visited remote areas of Cholistan including Sehb Toba, Gharkan, and Chanan Pir and learned about the situation of heatwave and drought.

He examined the enduring relief work for the protection of livestock, provision of medicines, arrangements for vaccination of cattle, and provision of clean drinking water. He also inaugurated the water supply line in Gharkan area of Cholistan.

This climate change condition, the subsequent water shortage, failed agriculture outcome and climate induced migration is not the only case of its type, but it is one among thousands happening around the globe.

These situations call for urgent actions of adaptation and mitigation and urge us to consider climate change as a global emergency.

About the Author: Maryam Eqan is an Executive In-chief and Founder of The Earth Needs Love. She believes in youth engagement and activism for environment, climate, and sustainable development.