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Home , Layyah District, Pothohar Plateau, Thal Desert, Thar Desert

Contents

Acknowledgements 4 Acronym and Vocabulary of Local Words 5 Executive Summary 6 Chapter 1 The Background 1.1 Introduction 7 1.2 Objectives of the study 8 1.3 Methodology 8 Chapter 2 Description of Thal and Area Profile

2.1 Brief Historical Background of 10

2.2 Profile of District 11

2.3 Study Area Profile 12

2.4 Settlement Patterns 13

2.4 Use of Energy and Communication Technology 15 2.5 Education, Health and other Infrastructure 16 2.6 Water and Sanitation Facilities 17

Chapter 3 MAJOR FINDINGS 3.1 and as a Source of Major Livelihood 18 3.2 and Channa (Gram/) – A major source of 18 Livelihood and Food Security

3.3 Livestock 22 3.4 Scarcity of Water 24 3.5 Shifting Sand 25 3.6 , Flora and Bio-Diversity 27

3.7 Role of Women in Desert & Economy 28

3.8 Climate Change and Coping Strategies 30

3.9 Effects of on the community 31

3.9.1 Shortage of Food and 31

3.9.2 Drinking 31

3.9.3 Increase in and 31

3.9.4 Decrease in Agricultural Production 31 3.9.5 Decrease in Animals Population 32 3.9.6 Increase in Indebtedness 32 3.9.7 Increase in malnutrition specially among women and children 32 3.9.8 Increase in infant and maternal mortality 33 3.9.9 Increase in the burden of women 33

Chapter 4 Conclusion and Way Forward

4.1 Sand Dunes Stabilization 34

4.2 Dew Harvesting and Vegetable Production 35

4.3 Promoting Energy Conservation 35

References

Acknowledgements

This study has been conducted under the supervision of Dr.Shahid Zia, Managing Director, Lok Sanjh Foundation (LSF), who provided valuable guidance from designing of study to collection of data and report writing. His professional support in this regard is acknowledged.

Heinrich Boll Stiftung (HBS) provided financial support for this study which is highly acknowledged. Particularly LSF would like to appreciate HBS’s efforts in encouraging organizations for undertaking initiatives related to green energy, climate change and ecology.

LSF is thankful to its field team comprising Mr. Farooq Khan, Dr. Asif Hameed, Ms. Faiza and Ms. Shamshad. Especially Dr.Asif’s local knowledge of the area and his language skills helped positively in collecting valuable information. Muhammad Azeem, Manager Media & Communication, LSF provided assistance in designing this report.

Thanks are also due to the communities of Thal desert in Chobara who participated in this study by giving their time and providing relevant information despite their busy days during wheat sowing season and related other tasks.

Acronym and Vocabulary of Local Words

Aak Calotoropois spp Arthi Trader or Commission Agent in the market where farmers sell their produce or buy inputs Barani Fed Bastee Scattered settlement of few houses in the desert Bairoon Desert area distinguished from irrigated area Beri Jajuba Bhaitak A place or room where outsiders are received and entertained BHU Basic Health Unit Channa Chickpea FGD Focus Group Discussion Guara Guar Beans Harmal Paganem Harmala - Local weeds having medicinal properties used for various ailments Karela Bitter Gourd Karir Capporisdecidua Kartuma Desert Gourd (Citrullus Colocynthis) used in traditional medicine for curing human and animal ailments Khaggal Tammarisk - Tenacious tree grown in Thal desert which survives in drought Khoo Traditionally water-well with settlement of few houses Kikar Acacia Lassi Yoghurt drink Layie Local Shrub i.e. Tamarisk dieica Marecha Local name for Mouza/Patti Officially one large village consisting of several ’Bastees’ settlements Rakh Rangeland RHC Rural Health Centre Shareen Local tree grows and survives well in Desert. Used for fuel and fodder Talor Houbara Bustard TDA Thal Development Authority THQ Tehsil Head Quarter Tibba High Ridge of Sand Tori Squash UC Union Council

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Thal desert consists of sand dunes ridges with some flat land where people live in scattered settlements. The area is rain fed and deficit in resources and infrastructure with almost no schools, health services, electricity, water & sanitation. Most of the farming communities own less than 5 acres of land which is of low quality. The poverty is widespread in the desert. Major source of livelihood is agriculture and livestock rearing the underground water is brackish but still used by some farmers for growing some wheat as a staple food. The main cash crop of Thal desert is “Channa” or gram which provides livelihood for people. If this crop fails due to no timely rain, drought or/and frost it causes serious losses to farming communities who come under heavy indebtedness which they cope either through selling their animals or migrating to irrigated areas. Another serious problem is a shifting sand dunes due to windstorms which are a normal feature which causes severe soil . The sand dunes are also destabilized by over grazing, cutting of trees and bushes when ploughing for cultivation. The ecology of the area is fragile because of sparse vegetation and resilience resulting in low bio-diversity. The whole situation is further exacerbated due to climate change which is now an inevitable fact and is ranked as one of the most vulnerable countries.

There is no doubt that the desert communities have lived in the area since centuries and have adapted to adverse physical environments. They have deep understanding of existing resources and have maintained their living patterns accordingly. However, there is an ample scope for enhancing livelihoods opportunities for the communities in changing climate by bringing in new knowledge and ideas and systematically integrating them with traditional indigenous knowledge and skills.

This study was undertaken at a micro level in 5 Bastees of UC Chobara, tehsil Chobara, District Layyah to understand and document desert ecology and socio- economic condition of people living in the area. It is expected that this would help in taking some initiatives with regard to adaptation strategies in changing climate for improving livelihood opportunities of desert communities living in abject poverty.

CHAPTER 1

The Background 1.1 INTRODUCTION

There are three ecological zones in million, out of which 87.2 % was i.e. Barani (rainfed) Districts, rural. Majority of the population Northern Irrigated Districts and depends upon agriculture for their Southern Irrigated Districts including livelihood. Cholistan. Layyah is located in Barani area and situated between the rivers District Layyah is one of the least Indus and Chenab in the central area industrially developed districts of of Pakistan. The district is more fertile Punjab with widespread poverty on western side near the particularly in desert areas. They and barren in the east. As we go from suffer from poor socio- economic and west to east, soil fertility decreases living conditions and the difficulty of and at the extreme east there is access to resources and “Thal” desert with various forms of opportunities. In addition desert sand ridges and dunes. The western areas falling within district Layyah are areas of the district Layyah are canal exposed to climate change which is irrigated while the eastern part is rain affecting their livelihood and ecology. fed. The communities living in the desert are less aware of the negative impact As far as geographical position of of climate change and adaptation and “Thal” is concerned, mitigation measures they can is in the north, is in the undertake. This study was conducted south, is in the east and Tehsil with an objective to understand Taunsa Sharif of D.G Khan District is desert ecology in the context of in the west across the Indus River. As climate change, its impact on per Population Census 1998 the livelihood s and food security. The population of was 1.1 main objectives are as under

1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

 To understand and document  Build capacity of change process in communities in climate desert ecology adaptation  To study the existing food security system and threats due to climate change

1.3 METHODOLOGY

The study area of Chobara was Bastees and surrounding selected due to its vulnerability in areas. terms of its inhabitants who are exposed to threats of climate change Meetings were also held with officials and its impact on their livelihood and of various departments of Tehsil food security. The field visit for the Municipal Administration (TMA) at study was conducted from 2-5 Chobara i.e., Agriculture, Livestock, December 2013 in “Thal” desert of Health, Forest and Education Chobara Union Council (UC), Tehsil Department including secretary of Chobara, District Layyah. For data collection a cluster of 5 Bastees little the union council Chobara for deep in the desert (10-15 km from collection of valuable information. It Chobara) was randomly selected helped in verifying data collected in within an appropriate radius keeping the field from groups of local in view the time available . The Data communities. was collected using qualitative methods based on: The study team comprised two male and two female researchers who  Holding 5 Focus Group were engaged for collection of data Discussions (FGDs) each with separately from female and male male and female groups. groups. Female researchers  Interviewing key informant conducted FGDs with females within particularly older people and the household courtyard where some teachers. women gathered while males  PRA exercise with selected conducted FGDs for male groups group of male and female was outside their houses where male also done for getting some strangers are received and relevant information of

entertained place called “Bhaitak”. prepared for the purpose was also Prior to going to the field all explained to them. researchers under the supervision of a senior researcher were given The notes taken during the field visits orientation and background of the were elaborated and gaps filled on study. The guidelines/ questionnaire daily basis after returning from field in the presence of all team members.

CHAPTER 2

Description of Thal Desert and Area Profile

2.1 BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THAL DESERT

The Thal desert is located in the Wagha’s and Awans etc. The locals of Province of Punjab on Sindsagar Thal basically speak ‘Seraiki’ but - an area between two rivers. It Punjabi is also spoken by many in the is a vast area between desert. the Jehlum and Indus rivers south of Prior to 1947 under British colonial the . It covers an administration the area of these area of about 190 miles long from districts was almost all . After north to south and 70 miles (110km) partition of into two wide from east to west. It resembles independent countries the the Cholistan in Punjab and the established Thar deserts in geographically. the Thal Development Authority It is divided into six districts namely; (TDA) in 1949 with the objective of , , Layyah, Bahkkar, transforming large parts of Thal Jhang and Muzzafagarh. Some of the desert (measuring some 2.6 million main towns of the desert are ha) into agriculturally productive , Roda Thal, Mari Shah land. Sakhira, Mehmood Shaheed, Dullewalla, Shahi Shumali, Chowk Aazam, Jiasel, Jandan Wala, Noor pur Modeled after the great canal colony Thal, Rang pur, Hyderabad Thal, Shah schemes, the TDA represents the Wala and . south-westward expansion of There are many tribes in the desert schemes in the postcolonial namely; Tiwana, Sial, Mammak, era. The TDA projects embodied Bhachar, Baghoor, Rahdari, Jhammat, national aspirations for development Cheenna (Jutt), Gahi, Aheer, Lashari, as well as new uncertainties faced by

livelihood and rearing was a main activity in the .

The development of the area changed the Thal’s complex ecology by regarding it as a wasteland. As a result of the development of canal system, settlement of people and reclamation of land for agricultural purpose grazing lands were the Pakistani state in its early days. diminished overtime, population of Land reclamation in Thal, along with wildlife once in abundance and area construction of large dams was seen rich in flora fauna almost vanished or as the solution to the challenges of diminished. food security, settlement of refugees and economic development. The building of metaled roads, canals and other relevant infrastructure took on added significance as they embodied the ideals of self-sufficiency and national modernity in a remote hinterland. Thal’s inhabitants predominantly had pastoral modes of

2.2 PROFILE OF DISTRICT LAYYAH District Layyah is situated in Muzaffargarh is located in the south Province of Punjab towards south of this district. west of at a distance of 450 Km. In its north, is situated the It appeared as a district in the district Bhakkar while at its west, province of Punjab in 1982. The flows River Indus. Across the river district name is derived from a there is which is commonly grown shrub, ‘Layie’ also the district of Punjab. District (Tamarisk dieica) used as fuel wood Jhang is located in the east and which covered most of the area of this district.

It consists of a semi-rectangular 18.7 centimeters which is mainly in block of sandy land between the the (July-August), Indus and Chenab rivers. District although some exceptions have Layyah covers 6,291 sq. Km, with a occurred occasionally in the past width from East to West of 88 Km e.g. in 1980-81, it was as high as and a length from North to South of 54.4 centimeters1. It is evident that 72 Km. Its population, as per there has been an overall declining census of 1998, was 1,121, 951, trend in the frequency and quantity with population density of 178.2 of rainfall in the district over a people/sq. km. Majority of the period of several decades. people here are linked with agriculture which is found both in Administratively, the district irrigated and desert area. The comprises of three tehsils, i.e., of farming of course is Layyah, Chobara (where study was different in both cases. Layyah was conducted) and The declared as the poorest District of tehsil of Layyah and Karor Lal Esan Punjab (1998 Census Report) . are comparatively better developed agriculturally but they have also The climate of the district varies large tracks of sand dunes and from very hot in summers and too uncultivated land. Whereas, tehsil cold in winters with the highest Chobara is almost desert and temperature of above 45 degree barren. The major Union Councils centigrade in June and lowest up to (UCs) of desert are Chobara, Rakh 02 degree in January. The district Kheray Wala, Nawan Kot, Rafiqa receives only scanty rainfall, the Abad, Jamal Chapri , Sher Garh, average rainfall does not exceed Aulakh Thal Kalan and 452 TDA.

2.3 STUDY AREA PROFILE

The study was conducted in 5 desert roadside bus stop where some shops Bastees of UC Chobara which is were set- up for some economic located 60 Km from Layyah towards activities by people living around. At east at /Jhang Road. The the time of our visit it was observed Chobara is also a Tehsil Headquarter that government offices were still (THQ) with typical rural settings. It being built and human settlements was established in 2005 as Tehsil. and commercial activities along the Prior to this, in fact, it was a small road will be on the rise gradually.

According to 1998 Census the or rain fed lands and ever expanding Population of Union Council Chobara human population and their was 30,618 which certainly may have dependence on already exhausted multiplied many fold since then. land resource further adds to the deterioration process. The Tehsil Chobara is almost barren and consists of some natural The population of Chobara tehsil is all vegetation and sand dunes. It is rural as no major town exists. The surrounded by a nearby a ‘Rakh’ or area distinguishes by its low and rangeland under the control of Forest erratic rainfall, high atmospheric Department of the Government of aridity, abundant sunshine, heat, Punjab which is located along layyah- strong dust-raising winds and sparse Jhang road at a distance of 15 vegetation cover. High sand dunes Kilometer from THQ Chobara. Total and sandy cover most of its area of Rakh Kherewala is 31,647 surface. In the region one can see acre and the economy of the areas is numerous species of local grasses, mainly pastoral. The rangelands have shrubs and trees. The fauna is largely been depleted due to over tenacious enough to withstand use. The carrying capacity of grazing extended drought. But the problem is areas has been drastically reduced. of their overexploitation leading to a The unsustainable use of the barani greatly depleted cover.

2.4 SETTLEMENT PATTERNS which is largest in respect of the total area and minimum in terms of The settlement pattern in the area is population, with a minimum influenced by the geography and percentage of people/Km, is a typical agro-ecological setting. Relatively example of small human settlements large and nucleated villages are as the local ecology cannot support located in the fertile and irrigated large human concentrations at any areas where agriculture has been given place in this Tehsil. Most developed extensively. On the people live in cluster of households contrary in sandy desert which is called “Bastees”. The Bastees are popularly called as ‘Bairoon’ there scattered in the desert which are smaller, scattered and humble stretches from Chobara to deep habitations of semi-nomadic inside desert about 30 or more km population. The Chobara Tehsil, towards Rangpur in south adjacent to

District Muzaffargarh. Usually The surveyed Bastees were located around one Bastee there are 4-5 about 10-15 km inside desert from “Khoos” (well- settlement)) where Chobara. The metaled road inside people have settled on their land desert was only available till 10 km with their extended families in towards south from the main road at houses mostly built of mud and/or THQ Chobara. While most Bastees

backed bricks. Most people are small were connected with each other land owners including some through sandy pathways which leaseholder tenants who depend on usually disappear during wind storms agriculture and livestock for their and difficult for strangers to find out livelihoods. Major crops grown in the the right pathway This poses a area are Channa/Gram/ chickpea serious danger for strangers to get and wheat depending on timely lost in the deep desert. rainfall. Yield is very low due to poor The population of the Bastees was soil and unpredictable rain. found to be living in scattered and

isolated hamlets. Several Bastees surveyed Bastees. The number of together officially form a village Households on each Bastee varied (Mouza/Pati). Thus the village may be minimum from 20 to maximum 100 spread over several kilometers. The and family size was 7-10. Following major tribes or castes who consisting Table No. 1 depicts the detail of of Lail, Warriach, Sundhu, Kamboo, Households, tribes and family size. Ranjhay and Sial were living in the

Table 1: No. of Households and Major Social Groups in Survey Bastees

Union HH Family Sr. No Name of Village Major Caste Council No. Size 1 Cha Kho Wala Chobara 20 8 to 9 Lail 2 Cha Ganji Wala Chobara 25 9 to 10 Lail Borang Wali Haq Lail, Waraich, Kamboo, 3 Chobara 30 7 to 8 Nawaz Sundhu 4 Basti Malook Chobara 60 8 to 9 Lail, Waraich, Kamboo Ranjhay (98 % and Sial 2 5 Kho Lundi Sher Garh 100 8 to 9 %

2.5 Use of Energy and Communication Technology All the Bastees had absolutely no revealed that recently some people electricity at all. Some people were have also started using low quality reportedly using kerosene oil in and cheap portable solar Torches or lanterns for night lighting which emits operated on battery cells lasting carbon CO2 and is a health hazard. It only few days and incurring them was reported as a major cause of reasonable cost, difficult to afford for respiratory diseases particularly them. among women and children. In Similarly, almost all households for addition, the use of kerosene for cooking meals were using fuel wood lighting costs about Rs.800-900 per from Khaggal tree, bio-mass and month per household. It was also

shrubs collected from the helped them in better surrounding areas. They were communication with people living supplementing this with some dried around different Bastees and market. cow dung as well. When asked about Particularly it was useful during “do they know about fuel efficient health emergencies among women cook stoves”? They had no idea at all when they had to call some “taxi” about such cook stoves. from Chobara for transporting patients to hospital. The use of In almost every household the use of mobile phone was found very mobile phones was found common positive despite some of the cost rather possession of an average of incurred on this service. This two mobile phones per household technology can be used for were reported. The use of this dissemination of information and technology, as told by the people has creating awareness on relevant issues .

2.6 Education, Health and other Infrastructure Literacy and Education rates in resources and cultural reasons. Male surveyed villages were one of the literacy among young people was lowest in the province of Punjab. found to be comparatively better Women literacy was negligible than women. particularly among elderly and middle There were no health facilities aged women as only small girls were available at all in the surveyed reportedly going to schools and it all Bastees. The nearest Rural Health depended on availability of primary Centre (RHC)/Basic Health Unit (BHU) school near the Bastee. Out of the 5 was located at a distance of 15 Km at surveyed Bastees the primary school the THQ Chobara. During emergency was found only in one Bastee. The particularly among women’s delivery school after fifth grade was available cases they reported acute problem. only at the THQ Chobara some 15 km Health issues emanating from poor away where people do not send their diet and resulting malnutrition were children particularly girls due to long significant. High incidences of low distance, lack of transport facilities,

birth babies and high infant and reported as a major concerns for maternal mortality rates were people.

2.7 Water and Sanitation Facilities There was no indoor latrines in the seen fetching water on motorcycles households except in one Bastee in containers from far away water where one proper latrine outside of supply points either from Chobara or the houses was seen. Not a sigle from irrigated areas at the Bastee had any piped water facility, neighboring boundary of desert. however, they all had Hand Pumps In the absence of sanitation facilities for drinking water, albeit brackish at the Household level particularly which was available at the depth of women shared with female members 30-35 ft. Many people reported of the research team their problems chronic stomach ailments of night time defecation and danger particularly among children due to of snake bite. In this regard some quality of available water. Some male cases were also reported from the members of the households were area.

CHAPTER 3

MAJOR FINDINGS

3.1 AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK AS A SOURCE OF MAJOR LIVELIHOOD Development of sustainable husbandry is the only available livelihoods in hot deserts region is a livelihood options. major challenge due to fundamental What is legally classified as environmental constraints: scanty is available in desert and erratic rainfall, with areas, and landholdings also tend to be small on an average less than 3-4 high variability of precipitation across acres which include also undiluted a season and across years, Frequent land. However, yields are low due to drought, extreme temperatures, lack of insufficient irrigation facilities, Highly fragile eco-system marked by and low fertility of soil. sparse vegetation, acute scarcity of is also constrained quality water for drinking and by scanty availability of grass and irrigation. native tree leaves. Permanent These constraints are compounded pastures are highly degraded and by remoteness of habitations, poor neglected. Increased grazing pressure communications- network and has led to disappearance of many negligible development. In these species and decline in biomass yield. circumstances, subsistence The nearby Rakh Kharewala/ range agriculture, supported by animal land at Chobara may be quoted as an example.

3.2 Wheat and Channa (Gram/Chickpea) – A major source of Livelihood and Food Security The main crops grown in the area is a major source of food security for include chickpea, wheat, guar and people is cultivated on small piece of some for livestock i.e. lucern, levelled land adjacent to their barseem and sorgum. Wheat which dwellings usually cleared from sand

dunes. This piece of land is irrigated shape and colour. The first relatively using tube-well water available at the small seeds black in colour is called depth of more than 120 ft. The tube- Desi or indigenous and with large well water also serves for growing seed brown in colour called kabuli some fodder and vegetables – mostly (Hybrid). Overtime productivity of spinach which withstands brackish chickpea ranges from 400 to 800 water. kg/ha. In Thal desert, where no other crop grows so successfully, it plays a Chickpea is widely grown on vital role in the cropping systems of unlevelled land locally called “tibbas” subsistence farmers. It helps in the and is the major source of livelihood management of soil fertility, of people in this desert. Its particularly in dry areas of the Thal production entirely depends upon desert. It leaves substantial amount intensity and distribution of rainfall. of residual nitrogen behind for

There are two main types of subsequent crop and adds much , distinguished by seed size, needed organic matter to maintain

and improve soil health, long-term livelihood. Even fodder crops and fertility and sustainability of the local tenacious tree were also burnt . out because of the frost. The loss of Chickpea is drought tolerant cash livelihood was very severe and crop and thus is the major wealth for people had to cope with this situation the people of Thal Desert. All social through selling their animals or/and activities of the farming communities migrating to irrigated areas. like marriages, sickness of human being, and livestock rearing are At the time of writing this report, it mostly linked with the success of this was reported in” DAWN” of 3rd crop. There was a wide gap between January 2014 that “ as temperatures potential and actual yield, which may have touched the freezing point in be attributed to various constraints, last week of December 2013 in many e.g., raining pattern, crop parts of the country, farmers are management, labor management, having a tough time amid threats to and infrastructural constrains. their crops. Gram crop was also under pressure situation as all those Although it is one of the major cash areas known for this crop are also crops but most farmers were facing facing biting chill without much acute problem of availability of good rainfall. The cold spell has quality seed which reportedly they jeopardized the prospects of a good had to buy on “Due”. It means they crop. Other crops are also under buy from the local Arthis/traders on threat of extreme weather and chill”. credit and pay almost double in kind at the time of harvest. Because of Similarly, when it was discussed with this prevalent practice majority of the the communities that how they cope farmers reported indebtedness. with this? They said “it is God’s will we cannot do anything as weather is In addition because of the above noted situation rapid change in changing and affecting our climatic conditions with scanty rain, livelihood”. They were also asked high variability of precipitation across whether night Dew has any effect a season, frequent drought and on their crops. It was reported that extreme temperatures were when it falls for few months it creates reported. It was learnt that few years positive affect on crops by keeping ago during winter the unexpected them moist and increase in heavy frost reported to have their chickpea crop damaged resulting in productivity. the loss of only source of major

Apart from cultivating Chickpeas, vanished and even farmer had no those having Tube-well facilities can seed to sow for the next year. Seed grow other crops as well, as stated production needs some special above.. Productivity of crops varies emphasis to maintain the quality and depending upon and quality, purity. Farmers give little attention management applied on crop and for their home produced seed and availability of resources. Wheat and have no difference in grain and seed. Guar Straws are also saved by Farmers did not distinguish between developing simple storage structures varieties of irrigated and rainfed to feed animals in slump periods. Few areas, which is a serious constraint in years’ back Guara Crop was totally overcoming the issue of low rain fed as pointed out by large productivity (Mehmood et al., 1991). number of people but heavy mixing Farmers need training in seed in seeds resulted in non-availability of production and storage techniques such seeds thus decreasing the trend so that its viability is maintained. and currently hybrid and mixed seeds were available demanding high inputs costs that was tough for deprived Most of the framers told to the field farmers living in deserts. Inputs like team that no vegetables are grown in seed is the basis of crop production, the area largely due to salty nature of which acts as genetic carrier, and use water. Those having ground water of quality seed of high yielding facilities in terms of Tube-wells also varieties is, therefore, the key, which were of the view that no vegetables unlocks the door to dramatic surge of lasts in those climatic condition the productivity when combined with particularly in summer heat. Only the use of other inputs under spinach was the sole vegetables favorable environmental conditions grown by the farmers in winter (Shah et al., 2007). season and in summer hot winds and extreme temperatures burn most of The climatic uncertainty due to the vegetables grown. When they erratic rainfall in the Thal desert is were asked whether they have tried the main obstacle of crop production other vegetables and all of them said under rain fed conditions. During the “No” except one farmer who told us drought periods, all the produce is that he had experimented with

different vegetables and have grown different vegetables as “Kitchen them successfully. Garden” for home consumption, they said that water was a major It was learnt that nearly each house constraint. hold buys vegetables from the market thus spending about Rs. 2000- There was serious lack of knowledge 3000/month. However, when they on farmers’ part about experimenting were told that it was possible to save with different vegetables and their this amount of money if they grow management.

3.3 Livestock

Livestock as a sub-sector of modes of draught power for agriculture is an important source of cultivation and transportation.” The livelihood for farming communities. number of animals depended upon Cattle are the most precious livestock availability of fodder. The animal species of rural lifestyle followed by population was reported to have Goats, and . It was been decreasing overtime as the

grazing areas are shrinking as learnt that almost all households compared to 20-30 years ago. It is keep these few animals. However because of increased settlements in camels locally called “Marecha” was the desert area and resultantly reported by negligible households. diminishing vegetation. As told by people that “its utility has been reduced with the use of other

The field team was told that 20-30 services were available in poorly Years back, ample grazing was equipped small unit in Chobara and available for livestock; people vaccination of livestock was not normally allowed their animals to practiced regularly. When the LSF roam around freely for grazing in the team visited local veterinary unit, no open range areas of the desert. After doctor was present there except one grazing whole day in the desert guard and junior assistant who told animals would returns home in the the visiting field team that “ very few evening. Disease outbreak was people bring their animals at the limited and Indigenous treatment centre but Doctor sometime goes to methods were used for curing. But check animals on call”. now, hybrid animals are also raised No Veterinary health centers or that require high input cost and hospitals were available towards the intensive method of rearing. Local interior of the desert at all. Livestock skills in terms of treatment and owners often become distressed and handling are dying out at an helpless when their livestock, increased rate and currently few particularly cattle fall seriously ill. elderly people knew about Ethno- Some traditional homemade herbal veterinary Practices. Now outbreak of preparations were used to treat sick new pests and diseases in the area animals. The mortality rate was for the past few years were reported reportedly very high and drought which usually result in increased conditions reportedly increased mortality rate in animals and high stress due to malnutrition and lack of treatment and curing cost for poor water causing various diseases. farmers where resources are negligible. At the same time local breeds of animals was reported to have been Mortality rate among cattle was near extinction and replaced by other reported high and the main causes of exotic breeds. The local breed of mortality was related to , goat called “Daira Din Panah” was not shortage of feed and water and seen in the area. The animals , as diseases caused by nutrition stress. stated earlier, were an important No livestock health facilities were source in coping with the negative available in the desert, only limited impact of changing climate. For

example, in case of major crop they sell their animals. failure, particularly of Gram/chickpea

3.4 SCARCITY OF WATER

In the desert area acute scarcity of shared by respondents except water for drinking and irrigation was decrease in production and yellowing reported. The farming is dependent of crops that might be due to some on rain water and underground water other factors. Farmers knew little though available in limited quantity is about rain water harvesting and brackish. However, some with efficient usage of techniques and financial resources had installed their technologies. However, Brackish small tube wells at the depth of 125- 150 ft. run on diesel operated engines and use water for irrigating small plots of land cleared from sand where they grow wheat and other minor crops. Some people reported growing vegetable like spinach only, as mentioned above, due to salty nature of water as other vegetables reportedly were not possible due to this effect and non-availability of water and extreme temperatures water particularly in summer. The added with frost in winter, wind wheat grown by the communities on storm in summer and hot winds small plots was one of the major resulted in decreased growth rate sources of staple food, thus food and ultimately burning was reported. security. For drinking purposes almost all the The use of brackish water for households were found to had irrigating crops mainly Guar, Wheat installed water pumps at the depth and Fodder no direct impact was of 20-30 ft all over the area visited.

One or two Hand-pumps were usually and cleaning techniques. Same water installed around residential quarters was used for cooking, bathing, where all extended family members washing and others operations. It can use it. Severe brackish water was was also told by many respondents documented and experienced all over that Diarrhea among children and the area resulting in digestive other digestive disorders were disorders and renal burning especially common in animals mainly due to among infants and elders. People brackish usage of water. knew little about water purification

3.5 SHIFTING SAND DUNES

Sand Dunes and ridges were largely and living agonies were reported at seen in surveyed area of Desert. The day time”. communities were asked about the The major and frequent problem for importance and negative/positive farming communities was shifting effect of living in a desert. The sand dunes during heavy winds due people told us nothing about their to which soil erosion and sand importance and positive role in their de-stabilization is quite common. life style except “they enjoy sleeping Their cultivable lands which is usually on “tibbas” and feel comfortable in a small piece of land around desert cool breeze at night time dwellings becomes un-cultivable and during hot summers. At the same to make this kind of land cultivable time the unbearable temperature again extra resources are to be spent by the farmers for removing sands which ultimately affect their household economy and livelihood.

People were of the view that this phenomenon is common in two seasons in pre-harvesting and post- harvesting i.e. in March – May and in August and September. High speed

winds blow resulting in shifting of sand dunes, thus limiting human activity for minimum of few minutes to maximum of two to three days. The intensity and frequency varies over the time. As communicated by a group of people that 4-5 years back they had experienced heavy wind storms in late May resulting in loss of their precious livestock and household items. The standing crop indebtedness, deteriorating damage was also reported as high household economy and increase in speed wind storm shifted hot sand on poverty. almost all kind of crop leaves thus resulting in burning of said crops and When asked about mitigation and vegetables. Since the shifted sand prevention strategies to minimize dunes, as stated above, requires shifting of sand dunes and spreading mechanical activity in terms of of sand on standing crops, people ploughing and cleaning sand, most answered that “tree plantation will people reported borrowing money minimize the intensity of shifting plus from different sources for managing spreading of sand on crops”. But the situation and keeping their lives virtually it was practiced by negligible going. The result was persistent number of farmers. As cutting of

trees was seen faster than planting earning rather extra money from sale except one farmer who had very of trees .” wisely erected shelter by growing a As, such trees and shrubs were row of three types of trees i.e. commonly used as fuel wood as well Khaggal, Shareen and Kiker (acacia) leading towards over cutting resulting on the field boundaries as wind in increased desertification and breakers/shields which helped in threat to bio-diversity. Particularly stabilizing sand dunes.. He said that “ such trees also provided security to he had no problem of protecting his desert communities during drought. crops on levelled land from shifting Therefore, more trees need to be sand due to tree lanes erected planted to mitigate desertification around his fields rather he was and protect bio-diversity.

3.6 Wildlife, Flora Fauna and Bio-Diversity

The desert area prior to 1970, as become very fragile due to reported by the people, used to be disappearing of vegetation. rich in wildlife, such as, , The communities told that “ Hunting Houbara Bustard (talor) fox, jackals, of Houbara Bustard is common , wood-packers which now these days and government has given almost have become extinct or near greater relaxation to some groups of to extinct. There used to be an Middle Eastern countries thus abundance of deer roamed about resulting in depletion of this freely in the area when human endangered species”. settlements and agricultural activities were very sparse. With the gradual The only trees which grow in the settlements on newly allotted lands, desert include: Khaggal, Shareen, vanishing habitats and excessive Acacia, Beri (Ziziphus Jajoba) and illegal hunting now the deer karir. While Beri and karir have population has completely almost become extinct. There were disappeared. The eco system has lots of medicinal plants reported to have in abundance which have also

disappeared except few weeds like given to cattle and camel in cases of Hermal and Kartuma which still grows rheumatism. in certain places. These medicinal Another plant was seen little in some plants were used for curing various places. Its milky latex is applied on inflamed areas to relieve inflammation and on snakebite to neutralize poison. The leaves and flowers are crushed and the paste is mixed with honey to cure flatulence, anorexia, indigestion and intestinal worm infestation. The root powder is mixed with butter and this ointment is applied to rabid dog bite. The knowledge of using such plants is dying and needs documentation and recognition. ailments. For example, Harmal -used The local Khaggal tree which in indigestion and digestive disorders withstands harsh weather of desert and renal burning. Kartuma – its ash was seen everywhere along with of dried burnt plant is mixed in honey some Keekar (Acasia ) and Beri . But and is used to treat wounds in Kareer which bears barriers like fruit animals and roots are used as used in making pickles and have purgative in acidities, jaundice and medicinal properties, was seen very rheumatism. Dried fruit is ground rare and will disappear soon. When into powder and then mixed with asked from the people about this common salt and the preparation is tree, they said that “ nobody bothers anymore about this tree and pickle”.

3.7 ROLE OF WOMEN IN DESERT ECOLOGY & ECONOMY

The role of women in agriculture contribution in household economy production, food processing and their cannot be ignored. Their role in

conservation of environment and bio- Housing, Milking and Health diversity is acknowledged and they management) were being carried by are known as the ‘custodian of bio- females yet their role is neither diversity’. recognized nor documented both at local and national level. When interviewed and asked to record the role women plays in Apart from contributing in farm managing different tasks in activities and livestock management women also use their other skills for making various products from dates palm leaves largely for their domestic use. However, if women are provided training to enhance their skills they can make these products for the market fetching them reasonable return.

Rural women are particularly at risk from the effects of land degradation. Their livelihoods and responsibilities agriculture, it was observed that women play a pivotal and leading role in managing agricultural activities in the field as well as within the household in addition to their reproductive role in child bearing and rearing. Number of agricultural operations such as saving of seeds, grading of seeds, sowing and harvesting of crops, weeds management, straw saving, cutting of fodder for livestock and overall make them more dependent on the management of livestock (Feeding, local natural resources than men. The

constraints and pressures which they prone and vulnerable to health face leave them more vulnerable to problems and especially related to declining crop yields, fuel wood maternity. The simple treatment and shortages and deteriorating water minor operation facility was available supplies. at 15 Km distance and somewhat good maternity center and Hospital Literacy level among elder women at 50 Km distance. It further was almost zero in all of surveyed exacerbates the situation coupled communities with not even single with sandy paths and unavailability of literate women was matriculate sufficient financial resources and mainly due to unavailability of transportation facility. schools. Secondly, women were more

3.8 CLIMATE CHANGE AND COPING STRATEGIES Climatic changes now has become in rainfall was observed and in 2011 reality to a greater extent for the production decreased a little bit. All past few years as observations were reported changes were due to shared by community members. The changes in frequency and timing of chickpea being a main source of rain fall. It was also shared that in income for small farmers and 2012, severe frost was seen in mid- successful production entirely February to late February and depends on rain fall, so people had subsequently production decreased understanding of rain patterns and significantly. Rather in few places frequencies and other climatic complete burning of crop was also hazards over a period of some years. observed along with all other When asked about observation vegetation i.e. fodder crops, wheat, related to rain fall during the last trees, vegetables, shrubs etc. fifteen years it was told by the people However, local Khaggal trees that chickpea production was great in survived which become main source the years from 1998- 2002, then for of income in such circumstances. In consecutive two years limited addition to that, it was also observed production was recorded and then that expansion in summer season and again in 2005 production increased. increase of temperatures at nights However, after 2009 severe shortage

and their effects on livelihood was reported by farmers as marginal.

3.9 Effects of drought on the community

3.9.1 Shortage of Food and Fodder

Whenever, there was drought outside of Thal at very high its effects were severe and price, others resort to migrate manifested in the form of food their cattle and livestock shortages and scarcity of outside of Thal towards canal fodder for animals resulting in irrigated areas. Some of them increase in prices. Some also sell their animals due to herders buy fodder from lack of resources to feed them.

3.9.2 Drinking Water Scarcity

The water table goes down and have to depend on water some hand pumps even go dry supply from faraway places and for drinking water people near the irrigated areas. As the water level goes down animal consumption. People due to lack of recharge through who keep on drinking this kind rainfall the water quality also of water reported many water changes. Normally it turns borne diseases. Such as, more brackish and absolutely Gastroenteritis, cholera and becomes unfit for human and other r related ailments.

3.9.3 Increase in Land Degradation and Desertification

If the drought persists for in Thal, it is assumed that large period long time the land is part of its land is turning into degraded which further add to desert incapable of raising the problem of desertification. agricultural produce or grasses Due to long history of drought for the animals.

3.9.4 Decrease in Agricultural Production

As agricultural produce is solely years the agricultural produce dependent on rainfall, the can be as low as 10% whereas persistent droughts will in a good year it can drastically reduce the capacity be up to 60-70%. of land to produce. In drought

3.9.5 Decrease in Animal Population

In drought time due to lack of reduces the poor peoples' fodder the animal become capacities to survive. They weak. They produce less meat become more vulnerable as and milk and hence its market their animals fetch very low value drastically reduces. Due rates and they are forced to to some exploitative practices, sell them at throw away prices the owners of the animals are to satisfy the basic food needs paid much less than the market during the droughts. value of animals. The in turn 3.9.6 Increase in Indebtedness

When people's resources disadvantage is that in future deplete, they resort to informal when the people have harvest channels for loans. They of their crops, most of the borrow from local money harvested grain is taken away lenders from Arthia, by the Arthia and shopkeeper shopkeepers and relatives to in payment of their loan. These meet the survival needs. This exploitative practices of Arthia borrowing has negative effects and shopkeepers further as the Arthia and shopkeeper increase the vulnerability of lend money to the people at the poor households who have the interest rates which are no option but to depend on many times higher than the further loans which increase bank rates. The other further their poverty.

3.9.7 Increase in malnutrition specially among women and children

Due to food shortages difficult delivery process due to including animal products their own physical weaknesses (milk, lassi, curd, meat) in plus the infants born are of drought times, the problem of very low weight posing malnourishment increases problem of survival. More than particularly in children. The 90% of the poor households pregnant women are are severely affected due to particularly affected due to the effects of drought. shortage of food. Undergo

3.9.8 Increase in infant and maternal mortality

The drought directly affects the cases becomes difficult. The health of mothers and their same is true for mothers who infants. Due to poor diet, long have to undergo very painful hours of work and social pregnancy and delivery period. conditions the women become Due to this situation, the infant weak and anemic and give and maternal mortality rates birth of weak infant. The are normally high during the survival of infants in many drought times. 3.9.9 Increase in the burden of women

During the drought the in search of work in order to drinking water pumps become support his remaining family dry to the quality of water back in Thal. In the absence of change for worse. In such the head of the household the situations the women have to entire family responsibility fall walk long distances to fetch on the shoulders of women, water from far away Pumps. which increases her burden of Also during drought the head work? She virtually plays the of the household is expected to role of her husband in his migrate to canal irrigated areas absence.

CHAPTER 4

Conclusion and Way Forward

From the findings of this study and would require working for sand analysis it appears that farming dunes stabilization, harvesting of dew communities living in desert area face and conservation of water and, numerous challenges. But those and strengthen role of specific problems which need women in conservation practices at immediate attention to improve their the household level as well at livelihoods in the changing climate community level.

4.1 Sand Dunes Stabilization

The absence of investment in desert done through the use of shelter belts, zones where shifting sand dunes is woodlots and windbreaks. common contributes to the Windbreaks are made from trees and marginalization of communities and bushes and are used to reduce soil areas, rather it exacerbates further erosion and evapotranspiration. Due when un-favorable agro-climatic to arid climate, there is need to conditions are combined with an promote plantation of local shrubs, absence of anti-sand shields, Acacia, Khaggal and shareen trees particularly in Changing climate. To and water efficient sisal as wind resolve these issue farmers need to breakers on the boundaries. If grown be made aware of this menace and successfully these plants can help in its consequences. The farmers would stabilizing sand dunes and ultimately require to be motivated and will contribute to improved encouraged to establish windbreaks livelihoods. The trees not only and shelter belts to reduce the provide protection against shifting impact of water or wind erosion. sand but also fix fertility in soil. Stabilizing or fixating the soil is often

4.2 Dew Harvesting and Vegetable Production

In order to address major problem of technology and can be tested as it scarcity of water there is need for helps in growing some vegetables in conservation of this precious small tunnels which otherwise n is resource by increasing water use not possible to grow with brackish efficiency, rain water harvesting, water. The vegetables, particularly reducing soil loss through increasing creepers like kerela and Tori (bitter vegetative cover, encouraging dry gourd & squashes) can be grown land and promoting dry which would provide food security as land farming. Dew harvesting well as save money otherwise spent technology has successfully been on buying vegetables from the tested in Israel and India. However, in market. Dew harvesting with Pakistan it is not in our knowledge mulching on minor crops can help in that it has been tested or not. Most keeping the moist intact for positive probably not. It is a simple impact.

4.3 Promoting Energy Conservation

Women of household use fuel wood night time for the call of nature and of Khaggal trees and some dry bushes exposed to snake bites. but their cook stoves waste enormous energy which can be saved Furthermore following intervention upto 30 % if fuel efficient stoves are may help in improving livelihoods of introduces. desert communities:

Similarly, most people use kerosene . Establishment of Chickpea oil for night lighting which emits Growers Association for Carbon and is major health hazard relieving farmers from the particularly for women and children clutches of traders and who are most exposed. It also cost indebtedness. them around Rs.800=1000 per month . Community preparedness per households. In order to stop this programme regarding climate emission a very simple and low cost change and adaptation. portable solar light with provision for mobile charges is needed to be . Efficient water harvesting and introduced. This would not only save usage practices need to be their money but also help women introduced extensively. who usually go out of their houses at

References:

1. Census Report,GOP,1998.

2. Dawn, January 14, 2014

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