Drying Ponds Force Cholistanis to Opt for 'Seasonal Migration'

The Cholistan desert in Pakistan is grappling with a severe water crisis, exacerbated by a month-long heatwave that has caused approximately one-third of the region's 2,000 vital water ponds, known locally as 'toba,' to dry up. These ponds, along with limited water supply lines, are the primary source of drinking water for the desert's estimated 0.3 million residents and their 1.5 million livestock.

Experts attribute the drying of these open ponds to high water evaporation rates caused by scorching sunlight and extreme temperatures during the hot months. While some ponds still retain water from recent rains, the overall shortage is significant. This scarcity is compelling many Cholistani residents, who depend on these water sources, to undertake "seasonal migration." They are leaving their native settlements with their livestock in search of water and fodder in more fertile areas.

The mass exodus has transformed many traditional straw-and-mud settlements into seemingly abandoned places. Local sources report that a considerable number of Cholistanis have already traveled to various cities to sell their sacrificial animals. The potable water supplied through the underground waterline network, established by the Cholistan Development Authority (CDA) in Bahawalpur, is reportedly insufficient for the needs of both the human and cattle populations.

Furthermore, residents in areas covered by the CDA network have complained about malfunctioning underground waterlines due to leakages, which hinder the smooth delivery of water. The CDA also operates water bowsers, provided by the Punjab government, to supply water to areas in urgent need. Shahid Hassan Kalyani, Managing Director of the CDA, acknowledged the water shortage faced by residents due to the heat spell and stated that the authority is taking measures to alleviate the situation. He also noted that the drying of ponds and subsequent seasonal migrations are natural phenomena in Cholistan, a challenge the residents have faced for centuries.

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The drying up of water ponds in the severely hot months is a natural phenomena in Cholistan and its residents have been facing it for centuries and these seasonal migrations are a routine for them.