Severe weather conditions, including recent dust storms, unpredictable winds and shifting climate patterns, had affected south Punjab, impacting both daily life and agricultural output.
Among the worst affected was the region’s iconic mango crop, especially in areas like Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Vehari, Khanewal and Muzaffargarh, where experts now warn of a significant decline in both yield and fruit size compared to previous years.
Multan’s mangoes, globally acclaimed for their sweetness and unique flavor, may witness a 40% reduction in size this year, said Director Mango Research Institute Dr Hafiz Asif-Ul-Rehman while talking to APP on Wednesday.
He highlighted the dual threats of extreme heat waves and insect infestations, particularly from mango hoppers, as major contributors to the crisis. “While dust storms and erratic weather impact mango orchards, the heatwave and hopper attack were far more dangerous,” he noted. “A timely spray of Dinotefuron was essential to protect the fruit and water stress must be avoided at all costs.”
The figures paint a grim picture as Multan’s 31,000 hectares of mango orchards were expected to yield approximately 426,000 metric tons, falling short of last year’s output. Similarly, Rahim Yar Khan may produce 221,000 metric tons, Khanewal 175,000, Muzaffargarh 232,000 and Bahawalpur only 44,000 metric tons.
Mango grower Javed Bhutta from Qasim Bela confirmed the fears on the ground. “The fruiting this year was much less than last year, and the remaining crop has suffered from strong winds and pest attacks. A significant amount of unripe fruit has already fallen, he added.”
To address these challenges, Dr Rehman announced a breakthrough initiative, the upcoming launch of the Mango Small Tree System under the Government of Punjab’s Green Punjab initiative. “This modern orchard management system aims to enhance productivity by introducing shorter mango trees that are easier to maintain and more resilient to climate stresses,” he said.
Training programmes, workshops and seminars were being organized by the institute to educate mango growers on best practices, pest control and climate adaptation strategies.
Dr Rehman also warned against the harmful practice of ripening mangoes with calcium carbide, a chemical banned due to its severe health hazards. “Globally, mangoes were ripened using ethylene, a much safer method. He said that they urge local growers to adopt this technique.
Scientific Officer, Abid Hameed Khan said that abrupt changes in day-night temperatures during 2024 and frost in December, significantly disrupted flowering and early fruit development. “Temperature fluctuations were becoming a growing challenge,” he said, encouraging farmers to stay in close contact with the Mango Research Institute for guidance.
