Karachi: Intense heatwaves in Karachi have inflicted significant losses on the local cattle farming community, with thousands of livestock perishing due to the extreme temperatures and high humidity experienced since May.
According to National Disaster Management Authority, the president of the Cattle and Dairy Farmers Association, Pakistan, Shakir Umar Gujjar, reported that up to 15,000 cattle have died in the region, a stark illustration of the challenges posed by severe weather conditions. Mubashir Abbas, a local farmer, recounted the loss of thirteen of his animals in just the last week of June, amounting to a financial hit of approximately USD 19,800.
The broader impacts on the agricultural sector are profound, with livestock contributing significantly to both the local economy and the national GDP. The ongoing crisis highlights the acute vulnerability of Karachi’s livestock to climatic extremes, exacerbated by insufficient governmental support and preparedness.