CHITRAL: Orchards established under the ongoing Climate Resilience Project in the Sweer and Sweer Lasht areas of Lower Chitral are showing encouraging results, according to a recent inspection by officials from the Agriculture Department.
The field visit was conducted by Khisrow Nawaz Ahmad, District Director Agriculture, accompanied by subject matter specialist plant protection Shahzad Ayub and SMS horticulture Rafiq Ahmed. The team visited multiple orchard sites developed as part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural resilience in the face of climate change.
Launched to support farming communities in vulnerable regions like Chitral, the climate resilience project focuses on promoting adaptive practices such as climate-resilient crops, improved irrigation methods and orchard development.
These interventions are designed to mitigate the adverse effects of shifting weather patterns, declining soil fertility, and increased pest pressure.
During the visit, officials found the orchards to be in generally good condition, a positive indicator of the project\’s early impact. Farmers were advised to follow the prescribed fertilizer schedules to ensure robust plant growth and fruit yield.
The team also stressed the importance of regular orchard monitoring and early detection of pests or diseases. Prompt reporting to the agriculture department was encouraged to enable swift action and prevent crop losses.
“The success of these orchards depends not just on initial plantation, but on consistent care and good management practices,” said Mr Khisrow Nawaz, according to a statement.
“Our department is committed to supporting farmers through technical guidance and timely field interventions.”
The officials added that building climate resilience in the agricultural sector was key to securing livelihoods and food security in mountainous regions like Lower Chitral, where communities are particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.