ADAPTATION STRATEGIES TO MITIGATE THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON AGRICULTURE AND WATER RESOURCES IN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This research examines the effects of climate change on agriculture, groundwater and biological systems in the region of Khyber Pakthunkhwa (KPK) Pakistan. Being a region that relies so much on farming, KPK is becoming more susceptible to climate change in terms of altering weather patterns, quantity of water and dynamic ecosystem. This research will evaluate the changes experienced in the area regarding the environment and the adaptive mechanisms used by the local farmers in fighting them. The research involved the use of a mixed-methods design where the quantitative data (e.g., related to temperature variations, rainfall/drought scenarios, ground/surface water presence, crop production) were complemented with the qualitative data extracted through surveying and interviewing 100 farmers of the largest agricultural regions of KPK: Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera. Statistical methods helped to analyze the quantitative data and reveal trends among climate variables whereas thematic analysis of the interview replies allowed reaching deeper insights of understanding the perception of climate change and the ways of adapting to it. As per the findings, a significant drop in rainfalls was recorded and 80 percent of the farmers admitted that it had an adverse impact on food production. Seventy-seven percent farmers recorded temperature increase and 71 percent of farmers noted deterioration in groundwater levels. As a reaction, 71 percent farmers improved their land use patterns and 63 percent altered crop choices as a result of the shortage of water. The study has also identified introduction of new species of plants and animals, which have impacted in crops and the livestock. The results emphasize the urgent need of specific adaptation plans, such as better water management and implementation of climate-resilient agricultural activities. The study indicates that there is a lot of necessity on government intervention and application of local adaptation strategies on which to curb the effects of climate change on farms in KPK. The research will provide helpful information to policymakers and agricultural extension agencies to model climate-smart interventions on sustainable farming in the area.