By Sidra Hassan
PESHAWAR:Pakistan, now the fifth most populous country in the world, is facing a looming threat of a food crisis due to the rapid conversion of agricultural land into residential areas. According to the 2023 census, the country’s population has surged to 241.49 million, with an annual growth rate of 2.5%. This rapid population increase has driven a significant rise in demand for housing, leading to the encroachment of fertile agricultural lands by housing societies and residential projects.
Experts warn that this shrinking agricultural land could spell disaster for Pakistan in the coming years. With reduced arable land, the country’s agricultural output is expected to decline sharply. As a result, Pakistan may have to rely heavily on imports to meet its food needs. Given the rising prices in global markets, such imports would not only be expensive but would also place a significant burden on the already strained national economy.
The anticipated decline in agricultural production could lead to shortages of essential commodities such as wheat, rice, and pulses, triggering a spike in food prices. This situation would particularly impact low-income households, who are already struggling to cope with rising inflation and economic instability.
Addressing this issue requires immediate and coordinated action from both the government and the public. The government must implement stringent policies to protect agricultural land from being converted into residential or commercial projects. Additionally, awareness campaigns are needed to educate the public about the critical importance of preserving arable land for the country’s food security.
Without decisive action, Pakistan risks facing a severe food crisis that could further exacerbate socio-economic challenges and impact millions of lives.
