A leading voice in environmental and agricultural affairs, Dr Pervaiz Amir, Saturday forecasted a much harsher winter, calling for immediate preparations to protect vulnerable groups and secure gas and crop management.While speaking exclusively to a local news channel, Dr. Pervaiz issued a grave warning about the upcoming winter, predicting it will be significantly harsher than previous years.

He emphasized the urgent need for early action to secure energy supplies, protect agricultural production, and safeguard vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children.According to experts, the anticipated severity is linked to the strengthening of La Niña pattern and trade winds, which are expected to bring increased frost and snowfall over the next two to three months.

Dr. Amir highlighted the critical importance of preparing cropping sites ahead of the harsh season, specifically urging farmers to sow resilient seeds of wheat, sugarcane, and animal feed crops well in advance. He stressed that timely planting and securing these crops is vital to ensure food security and stable livestock nutrition during the severe winter months.Failure to act promptly could lead to reduced yields and jeopardize the livelihoods of rural communities dependent on agriculture.

Moreover, the expert warned that extreme weather conditions might disrupt gas supplies, further complicating heating and energy access for households and farming operations.With frost and snowfall predicted to intensify, he urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, farmers, and local communities, to coordinate early preparedness efforts.Protecting vulnerable populations while securing critical energy and agricultural resources will be key to mitigating the impact of what promises to be one of the harshest winters in recent memory, he added.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)