Climate and Environmental Change, Nature and Us

Author: Raziq Bhatti

Twenty to twenty-five years ago, the seasons followed a natural and balanced cycle. Spring usually began in early February, buds appeared on trees, summer arrived in April, and winter started in September. Today, however, seasonal patterns have shifted noticeably. Spring now begins around mid-March, while summer starts in mid-May. This clear change in weather reflects the growing impact of environmental and climate change.

Human activities, along with natural factors, are playing a major role in disturbing the environment. One of the biggest reasons is the destruction of the earth’s natural structure through unplanned land development and rapid urban expansion.

The Potohar Plateau was once known for its rugged hills, fertile fields, streams, forests, wildlife, and fresh natural springs. The region had a balanced ecosystem that supported both nature and human life. Trees, crops, herbs, and flowing water helped maintain oxygen levels, cool temperatures, and environmental stability.

During spring, the region displayed breathtaking natural beauty. Berry trees, wild mulberries, banyan trees, keekar trees, figs, and green fields created a healthy and refreshing environment. The natural high and low structure of the land also helped cool the atmosphere. Warm air would rise through the soil and trees, while cooler air replaced it naturally.

Rainwater once spread slowly across fields, streams, and open land. This process allowed groundwater levels to rise and kept the soil moist. As a result, the weather remained cooler and more pleasant throughout the year.

Unfortunately, poor planning, weak government policies, and the rapid conversion of fertile land into housing societies and commercial projects have badly damaged this natural system. Agricultural lands are disappearing across the country, especially in Potohar.

Today, fields are being replaced by housing schemes, plazas, markets, offices, and wedding halls. Air conditioners, industrial cooling systems, and heavy traffic are increasing air pollution. According to estimates, nearly 500,000 to 700,000 vehicles enter and leave Islamabad daily, releasing harmful gases into the atmosphere.

At the same time, natural landscapes have been flattened for roads and commercial centers. Rainwater no longer soaks into the earth and instead flows directly into sewage drains. This increases land temperature, reduces groundwater levels, and damages natural water systems.

Many birds and animals are also disappearing from the region. The green parrots of Potohar are now rarely seen. Peanut farming has declined, and berry trees have almost vanished from many areas.

In the past, travelers moving from Rawalpindi through Gujar Khan and Jhelum toward Lahore would witness green mustard fields, maize crops, sugarcane farms, flowing streams, and large trees. Today, most of these natural views have been replaced by shops and housing societies.

The Soan River and Ravi River, once famous for clean water and fresh fish, are now heavily polluted with sewage and industrial waste.

Rapid construction along major roads such as Fateh Jang Road, Peshawar Road, and Chak Beli Khan Road has further increased environmental pressure. Housing projects continue spreading across fertile land without proper planning.

Experts warn that if authorities fail to implement strict land utilization policies, future development projects may destroy even more forests, mountains, research centers, and agricultural areas. The environmental damage could become irreversible, threatening both natural beauty and human survival for future generations.

More details in the next column.