Unusual weather fluctuations in Multan and other parts of South Punjab have negatively impacted the wheat crop, raising concerns over significantly reduced per-acre yield this season.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, average temperatures in March remained around 2.7°C above normal, disrupting the natural growth cycle of wheat.
The sudden heat rise caused early spike formation, preventing proper grain development and resulting in a smaller grain size.
March is considered a critical period for wheat growth, particularly for grain formation. However, the early heatwave disturbed this phase, affecting overall crop quality and productivity.
The situation worsened in early April when unexpected rains and hailstorms damaged wheat standing on approximately 210,000 acres across South Punjab.
Farmers fear that achieving even 30 to 35 maunds per acre will be difficult this year due to the disrupted growth cycle.
In addition to weather-related losses, farmers are also struggling with rising production costs, particularly due to increasing diesel prices.
Harvesting expenses per acre have nearly doubled compared to last year, while uncertainty over wheat market prices continues to add financial pressure.
South Punjab contributes nearly 70% of Punjab’s total wheat production, making these developments a serious concern for both the regional agricultural economy and national food security.
