As the heatwaves are troubling Pakistan, mango harvesters were left scratching their heads as to how to save their crops. Mangoes heavily affected by the heatwaves that have gripped the subcontinent so far. According to some estimates, 50 to 60% of the crop has taken a hit due to the unprecedentedly high temperatures and with the climate change induced heat waves now set to become the norm the future for mango production looks bleak for now.
“Unfortunately, the heat wave has adversely affected many crops this year, including mango and watermelon,” said Dr Anjum Ali Buttar, who is the Director General of the Punjab Department of Agriculture (Extension). “When the temperature rises and the air gets warmer, plants release water stored in their leaves, fruits, and stems to cool down. During this natural process of plants trying to save their lives the ripe fruit suffers the most.”
The suffering of the mango crop, as per the department’s estimates stands at a 35 to 40% drop in regular annual produce.
Source: tribune.com.pk