july/2025

The Significant Reduction in Quetta's Greenery.

The city of Quetta, often referred to as the "Fruit Garden of Pakistan," has historically been celebrated for its lush orchards, green valleys, and picturesque landscapes. Nestled among the mountains of Balochistan, Quetta's greenery not only beautified the region but also played a crucial role in its environmental stability, agriculture, and economy. Unfortunately, over the past few decades, Quetta has witnessed a significant reduction in its greenery, raising serious concerns among environmentalists, residents, and policymakers.
This alarming decline is the result of a complex interplay of factors including rapid urbanization, deforestation, water scarcity, climate change, and weak environmental governance. The consequences have been far-reaching, leading to environmental degradation, health problems, and economic challenges for the people of Quetta. However, hope remains that with proper planning, awareness, and collective action, the lost greenery of Quetta can be revived. This article explores the causes behind Quetta's declining greenery, the impacts on the region, and the potential solutions to restore and preserve its natural environment.

Historical Perspective: Quetta's Green Identity

Quetta's geographical location and climate made it ideal for agriculture and horticulture for centuries. The city was known for its fruit orchards, including apple, cherry, apricot, peach, and pomegranate trees, earning it the title "Fruit Garden of Pakistan." The surrounding hills and green belts contributed not only to the scenic beauty but also to the ecological balance of the region.
Before the sharp rise in population and urban expansion, Quetta boasted large areas of forests, orchards, and natural vegetation. These green spaces provided clean air, stabilized the climate, protected the soil from erosion, and supported biodiversity.
However, with time, human activities and climatic challenges have changed the city's landscape dramatically.

Causes of the Reduction in Quetta's Greenery

1. Rapid Urbanization and Unplanned Construction

Large tracts of agricultural land and green spaces have been converted into housing schemes, markets, and roads. Green belts along roadsides, public parks, and orchards have been cleared to make way for concrete structures. The absence of strict building codes and weak enforcement of environmental laws has exacerbated the problem.

2. Deforestation

The forests surrounding Quetta, including those in Ziarat, Hanna, and other nearby areas, have suffered extensive deforestation. Timber smuggling, illegal woodcutting, and the increasing demand for firewood have contributed significantly to the loss of forest cover. In many rural areas near Quetta, wood remains the primary source of fuel for heating and cooking, especially in winter.
This unchecked deforestation not only reduces greenery but also destabilizes the local climate, increases soil erosion, and threatens biodiversity.

3. Water Scarcity

Water is essential for maintaining greenery, but Quetta faces chronic water shortages. The underground water table has been depleting due to over-extraction and poor water management. Wells and tube wells have proliferated, but the recharge of underground aquifers is minimal due to reduced rainfall and the drying up of natural water sources.
As water becomes scarce, maintaining orchards, gardens, and trees has become increasingly difficult for residents and farmers. The once-thriving orchards in and around Quetta are now shrinking, and many areas have turned barren.

4. Climate Change and Drought

Balochistan, including Quetta, has been severely affected by climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and prolonged droughts have taken a toll on the region's greenery. The lack of consistent rainfall has made it difficult to sustain vegetation and agriculture.

Studies indicate that Balochistan's average temperature has increased over recent decades, while precipitation levels have declined. This combination has led to desertification, reduced soil fertility, and a shrinking green cover.

5. Lack of Environmental Awareness and Governance

Despite the clear signs of environmental decline, efforts to raise public awareness and implement effective environmental policies have been inadequate. There is limited understanding among the general population about the importance of trees, forests, and sustainable land use.
Moreover, environmental protection departments often lack the resources, authority, or political backing to enforce regulations, control illegal activities, or promote large-scale tree plantation drives.

Consequences of Reduced Greenery in Quetta

1. Environmental Degradation

The loss of greenery has led to significant environmental problems. Soil erosion has increased, contributing to land degradation and loss of agricultural productivity. The absence of trees and vegetation reduces natural carbon sequestration, worsening air pollution and greenhouse gas accumulation.
Dust storms, which were previously rare, have become more frequent due to barren landscapes. These storms reduce air quality, damage crops, and cause respiratory problems for residents.

2. Loss of Biodiversity

Quetta's natural habitats supported a variety of wildlife, including birds, small mammals, and insects. As greenery disappears, these species lose their homes and food sources, leading to a decline in biodiversity. The ecological balance of the region is under threat, which can have long-term consequences for the environment and food chains.

3. Economic Impact on Agriculture and Horticulture

The reduction in orchards and green agricultural spaces has directly affected the livelihoods of farmers. Quetta's fruit production, once a significant contributor to the local economy, has declined in both quantity and quality. The shrinking greenery reduces agricultural opportunities, affecting income, employment, and food security for thousands of families.

4. Health Challenges

Green spaces play a vital role in improving air quality, reducing heat, and providing recreational areas for residents. Their loss has led to higher pollution levels, increased temperatures in urban areas (urban heat island effect), and limited opportunities for physical activity and mental relaxation.
Respiratory illnesses, stress, and heat-related health problems have become more common, affecting the overall well-being of Quetta's residents.

5. Aesthetic and Cultural Loss

Quetta's greenery was not only functional but also a source of pride and beauty for the city. The fruit orchards, gardens, and tree-lined roads contributed to the city's identity and cultural heritage. Their disappearance diminishes the aesthetic appeal and cultural connection of the people to their land.

The Path to Restoration: Solutions and Recommendations

While the reduction in Quetta's greenery presents serious challenges, it is not an irreversible process. With coordinated efforts by government authorities, communities, and environmental organizations, it is possible to restore and even enhance the region's green cover.

1. Promoting Urban Green Spaces

Urban planning must prioritize the development and preservation of parks, green belts, and community gardens within Quetta. Municipal authorities should enforce regulations that protect existing green spaces and mandate tree planting in new developments.
Public-private partnerships can be encouraged to invest in landscaping projects that beautify the city while improving its environmental quality.

2. Mass Tree Plantation Campaigns

Large-scale tree plantation drives are essential to restore Quetta's greenery. These campaigns should focus on native, drought-resistant tree species that can survive in the region's harsh climate. Educational institutions, government offices, and community groups should be actively involved in these efforts.
Organizations like the Forest Department and NGOs can provide technical guidance, saplings, and awareness to ensure the success of plantation projects.

3. Water Management and Conservation

Water scarcity must be addressed through sustainable management. Measures such as rainwater harvesting, recycling wastewater for irrigation, and promoting water-efficient irrigation techniques (e.g., drip irrigation) can help sustain greenery despite limited water resources. Policies to control groundwater extraction and replenish aquifers are critical for the long-term availability of water for both people and plants.

4. Combating Deforestation

Strict laws and enforcement are required to curb illegal logging and deforestation around Quetta. Alternative energy sources, such as solar and gas, should be made accessible to reduce dependence on firewood.
Additionally, communities living near forested areas should be engaged in forest conservation initiatives, providing them with incentives for protecting rather than exploiting forests.

5. Public Awareness and Education

Creating a culture of environmental responsibility among Quetta's residents is vital. Public awareness campaigns through media, schools, and religious platforms can educate people about the importance of greenery, the dangers of deforestation, and the benefits of sustainable living.
School curriculums should incorporate environmental education to instill eco-friendly values in younger generations.

6. Government Policies and Enforcement

Environmental policies need to be updated, strengthened, and strictly enforced. Quetta's development plans must integrate environmental protection as a core component. Dedicated funds for afforestation, park maintenance, and climate resilience should be allocated. Environmental impact assessments should be mandatory for major construction projects to ensure that development does not come at the cost of greenery.

Successful Examples and Hope for the Future

There have been positive examples within Balochistan where targeted efforts have restored greenery. In Ziarat, campaigns to protect and expand juniper forests have shown promising results. Similarly, small-scale community-led plantation projects in Quetta have demonstrated the potential for positive change.

If these efforts are scaled up, supported by proper governance, and embraced by the people of Quetta, the city can once again reclaim its green identity.

The significant reduction in Quetta's greenery is a pressing environmental, economic, and social issue. While the challenges are immense, they are not insurmountable. By recognizing the causes, understanding the consequences, and implementing practical solutions, Quetta can embark on the path of environmental restoration.
The revival of greenery is not only about aesthetics but about securing a sustainable, healthy, and prosperous future for the people of Quetta. The city that was once known as the "Fruit Garden of Pakistan" can still reclaim its title, but only through collective responsibility, wise policies, and unwavering commitment to environmental preservation.

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