Judicious, efficient use of available water urged

Meteorological, Hydrological and Agricultural drought conditions are worsening in the country, therefore, people must use the available water judiciously and efficiently for agriculture/irrigation practices and daily use, Director General, Pakistan Meteorological Department Dr Qamar-uz-Zaman Chaudhry has warned.
Dr Chaudhry said that most parts of the country are experiencing extremely dry conditions mainly due to the prevailing El-Nino conditions in the Pacific Ocean. The El-Nino conditions, which developed in June 2009 and suppressed Pakistan monsoon rainfall by about 30 percent, are likely to continue till next summer.
Since the end of monsoon season, which too was deficient, most parts of the country, except some areas of central and north Balochistan have not received any significant rainfall.
Dr Chaudhry said that barani areas of the country, which are already experiencing crop failure, are under severe agricultural drought. In the face of diminishing irrigation water, irrigated plain areas are also likely to come under agriculture drought condition.
Weather Forecast:
In its weather forecast, the Met office said on Sunday that continental air likely to prevail over most parts of the country during next few days. However, a westerly wave affecting Northern areas and likely to remain during next 24 - 36 hours.
In Islamabad and Punjab mainly cold and dry weather expected in the province during next few days. However foggy weather is likely to prevail in plain areas of Punjab.
In Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, very cold and dry weather is expected during next few days. However, isolated light rain with light snow may occur in Gilgit-Baltistan on January 17 and 18.
In NWFP, cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the province during next few days. However, light rain with light snow may occur in Malakand division in next 24 hours.
In Sindh dry weather is expected in most parts of the province during next few days. In Balochistan very cold and dry weather is likely in most parts of the province.