IMPACT OF CLIMATE VARIABILITY AND CHANGE ON MANGO PRODUCTION: PERCEPTIONS, CHALLENGES AND ADAPTATION

Abstract

Growth and productivity of mango plants depend heavily on climatic factors such as storms, heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and droughts. Consequently, climate change poses a serious challenge to mango production in the country. To assess this impact, a study was conducted using data from Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh, and Khanewal. Findings revealed that mango growers who adapted to climate change had slightly higher education levels and more orchard management experience than non-adapters. Access to advisory services, market, and weather information was also greater among adapters. Approximately 93% of mango growers perceived climate change, and 59% specifically heatwaves, affected mango production in Punjab. Heatwaves compromised fruit quality through burning, splitting, and de-shaping, and reduced fruit size across varieties. A sudden temperature increase (39–43°C) in March significantly affected flower emergence and caused burning and drying. Varieties such as Dusheri, Fajri, and Kala Chaunsa showed normal yields, while Sindhri, Langra, Anwar Retaul, Late Retaul, and Chenab Gold had moderate crops. In contrast, SB Chaunsa, Sufaid Chaunsa, and Azeem Chaunsa suffered severe losses, with yields declining by 40%, 30%, and 22% respectively. Among the studied districts, Rahim Yar Khan was most affected by heat waves, followed by Muzaffargarh, Multan, and Khanewal. Regarding adaptation strategies, 15% of respondents applied nutrients to mitigate the impact, 7.5% used irrigation, and 6% adopted other measures. In conclusion, heat waves adversely affected mango production in Punjab, but timely irrigation and nutrient management could help reduce climate change impacts on mango cultivation.