Karbala farmers face climate challenges under severe heat

KARBALA — Farmers in the Ain al-Tamr district, approximately 67 km west of Karbala near Razzaza Lake, are facing severe climatic conditions on the desert’s edge, making summer agriculture increasingly difficult. The intense heat and dwindling groundwater levels have made it impossible to grow summer crops, prompting farmers to postpone planting until the cooler winter months for strategic crops like wheat.

Despite various attempts, efforts to cultivate crops such as maize and watermelon have not been successful in the region. However, wheat farming remains a robust activity. According to recent data, Karbala marketed 228,000 tons of wheat this year, with a significant portion originating from Ain Al-Tamr.

Ahmed Al-Anzi, a local farmer, detailed the challenges faced during the summer months. “Summer farming in the region is unsuccessful due to the harsh climatic conditions, which led to the failure of grain crops like mung beans. Although yellow maize cultivation was successful, the lack of government support and low prices forced farmers to sell the crop at reduced rates, ultimately halting maize farming,” Al-Anzi told 964media.

He added, “The opening of borders and the influx of imported crops have also caused financial losses for watermelon farming.”

The inadequate electrical supply has also been a significant issue, with weak currents preventing large pumps from functioning effectively, leaving the land fallow during the summer.

Jowad Al-Kuraiti, head of the local federation of agricultural associations, commented on the region’s agricultural practices. “Karbala is renowned for cultivating wheat in desert lands using modern irrigation techniques. The price of wheat per ton reaches 850,000 dinars, providing a lucrative return,” he stated. Al-Kuraiti also noted the specific challenges of summer agriculture in Ain al-Tamr, citing high temperatures and sandy soil as additional factors to the critical groundwater shortages.

Adel Hamadi, director of commercial and financial supervision at the Ministry of Trade, provided further details on the wheat production in the region. “The total amount of wheat marketed in Karbala province for 2024 reached 228,000 tons, with approximately 190,000 tons from the Ain al-Tamr district. The marketing process started on April 18 and concluded on June 1, 2024,” Hamadi reported.

Iraq’s agricultural sector is under increasing threat from climate change, with the UN reporting a 1.5°C rise in average temperatures since the 1980s and an expected reduction in water availability by up to 50% by 2030. These environmental changes are leading to crop yield declines, especially in southern Iraq, due to heightened soil salinity and extreme weather conditions.

The growing environmental and humanitarian challenges have prompted the Iraqi government, with support from the UN, to develop adaptation strategies. These include enhancing water management, investing in renewable energy, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.