Cotton, a vital crop for Pakistan’s agricultural industry, faces a severe threat from an unprecedented heatwave sweeping across the majority of the country’s cotton-growing regions. This hike in temperatures is expected to cause a significant 5 to 10 percent drop in per-acre yield, according to industry experts.

Ahsan-ul-Haq, the chairman of the Cotton Ginners Forum, also highlighted the dangerous situation by mentioning that the temperatures in South Punjab, Sindh, and other prime cotton belts have already exceeded 42 degrees Celsius, a level highly detrimental to the delicate cotton plant.

A statement issued by the forum reported incidents of shedding flowers and cotton bolls due to the intense heat. This not only directly impacts the amount of harvest but also adversely affects the quality of open cotton fibre and seeds. Such damage could have long-term devastating consequences for the overall quality of Pakistan’s cotton.

Ahsan-ul-Haq stressed the urgent necessity for farmers to implement protective measures immediately to mitigate potential losses. Agricultural experts are advising farmers to reduce irrigation intervals and promptly apply boron and other specialized sprays to prevent the shedding of flowers and bolls.

Exacerbating the issue, the sudden hike in temperature is rapidly depleting soil moisture, adding further stress on crop development.

Cotton is one of Pakistan’s most crucial cash crops. A decline in its production would not only impact farmers’ incomes but also have significant negative repercussions for the domestic textile industry and national exports.

The Cotton Ginners Forum has appealed to the government to provide immediate emergency guidance through its agricultural departments. This timely intervention is crucial to assist farmers in safeguarding their produce from the destructive impacts of the current heatwave.