Loss of glaciers
The impact, when it comes, will be widespread and inflict massive suffering on other countries and territories as well, such as Bangladesh, China and Tibet. Greenpeace estimates that Himalayan glaciers, called the ‘third pole’ by some on account of the massive reserves they hold, are the primary source of water for one-sixth of the world’s population. If they cease to exist, agriculture – the backbone of South Asian economies – could take a hit from which it may never recover. The result: acute food shortages, loss of livelihood and, ultimately, internal or transnational conflict.
The ranks of ‘climate refugees’ will grow exponentially and further burden the already dilapidated infrastructure of towns and cities across the region. This is not some doomsday scenario concocted by the radical fringe of the environmental movement. Science supports this view. If the current rate of global warming is not arrested forthwith, drought and famine of unprecedented proportions will be seen within the lifetime of the generation now in its infancy. Water wars will indeed take place if climate change continues apace. People will die in the fight over resources.
It is estimated that Himalayan glaciers are receding by 30 to 50 metres a year. In another 50 years they could be gone altogether. If current trends persist, there will be an over-abundance of water at first and possibly an increased incidence of flooding. And then, when higher temperatures ensure that glaciers can no longer be sustained, extreme drought will set in. The Indus, the lifeline of Pakistan, could see dramatically reduced flows and agricultural holdings across the country will become less productive.
The strangling of the Indus will in turn result in greater sea intrusion – already a major problem in Sindh – and the loss of even more arable land. Mass migration is inevitable in this scenario and squabbling over dwindling resources may lead to serious conflict amongst peoples and nations. Pakistan’s contribution to global warming is almost negligible, yet it will be among the countries hardest hit by climate change. It is up to the developed countries and emerging powers such as China, India and Brazil to arrest the slide before it is too late.
SOurce:dawn