The ongoing floods in Punjab, Pakistan, have submerged more than 1.3 million acres of farmland, causing widespread destruction to Kharif crops and sparking fears of rising food inflation. The disaster is already being seen as one of the most severe agricultural setbacks in recent years.
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| Floods in pakistan |
Massive Crop Losses
Punjab’s cotton belt has taken the heaviest hit, with nearly 35% of the cotton crop wiped out in central and southern districts. In Bahawalnagar, damage has surged to 40–50%, creating concerns for the textile industry, which relies heavily on local cotton supplies. STUDENT
Other essential crops such as rice, sugarcane, corn, vegetables, and fodder have also been affected. While some reports suggest up to 60% rice crop damage, exporters argue the actual losses are much lower, creating uncertainty in trade projections.
Economic Fallout for Farmers and Industry
According to the Kissan Board, the farming community has already incurred losses of over Rs 536 billion. The cotton shortfall is particularly alarming for Pakistan’s textile sector, which generates more than half of the country’s export earnings.
Additionally, the destruction of fodder crops poses a direct risk to the livestock industry, another major contributor to Pakistan’s GDP. Shortages could lead to a decline in milk and meat production, further fueling inflation.
Rising Food Inflation Concerns
Experts warn that the dual blow of crop destruction and food shortages could push grain and vegetable prices sharply upward. With perishable items already in short supply, there is a growing risk of a domestic food crisis.
Rice exporters also fear Pakistan’s product may lose competitiveness in international markets if costs continue to rise.
Humanitarian and Infrastructure Crisis
Beyond agriculture, the floods have left a humanitarian disaster in their wake. Reports confirm that:
2 million people have been displaced.
Over 2,000 villages are submerged.
Nearly 3,661 square kilometers (around 4.7% of 24 Punjab districts) remain underwater.
More than 760,000 people and 516,000 cattle have been relocated to safer areas.
Ongoing Challenges
Experts caution that the crisis is far from over. Continued heavy rainfall and a newly reported virus attacking cotton varieties could further slash yields. Some ginning factories and textile mills are already facing the threat of shutdowns due to raw material shortages.
The Road Ahead
Current Situation of Pakistan 2025
The Punjab floods are not only a humanitarian emergency but also a serious threat to Pakistan’s economy and food security. Immediate relief efforts, sustainable flood management, and support for farmers will be crucial to mitigating long-term damage.