Peatland Over-Extraction Threatens Broghil National Park in Chitral

APP
Peshawar: A research study on peatland consumption in Chitral’s Broghil National Park has warned of over-extraction of the natural resources resulting in shrinkage of grazing lands, degradation of wildlife habitat and increase in fume emission.
The study conducted by two research scientists including Khurshid Ali Shah and Hamid Ahmad suggested holding detailed scientific research to obtain complete data on the available natural resources and prepare a strategy for ensuring sustainability.
“Peatlands serve as a crucial carbon store, holding approximately one-third (between 250 and 450 Pg1) of the world’s terrestrial carbon pool,” reveals Hamid Ahmad.
They constitute a significant long-term sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and have the capability to regulate concentrations of atmospheric CO2. The research focused on 12 villages in Broghil Valley, where peatlands play a vital role in meeting the energy and fodder requirements of the communities.”
The study objectives were also to know the existing status of the peatlands, to assess trends in peatlands use, to assess the usage and pressure on the peatlands, and to formulate a long-term strategy for peatland conservation and management in the Park.
The biodiversity value of peatlands demands special consideration in conservation strategies and land use planning, Hamid stressed. Use of peatland in Broghil Valley Historically, the most common use of peatlands in Broghil Valley, besides the use as grazing land, has been as a primary source of fuel.
The exploitation of peat as a fuel for domestic use began around 75 years ago when locals came to know through a migrant from China that peat could be used as fuel. Since then peat has been the traditional domestic fuel in Broghil Valley.
The peatlands also perform some crucial ecological roles like water storage, offering habitat for migratory birds, as a source of fodder for livestock and wildlife, and as the major carbon sink at that altitude.
Peat-lands are sensitive to climate change. In the last 40 years, the peat-lands ecosystem in Broghil Valley has been under tremendous pressure due to over-exploitation to meet household energy needs of the communities that live permanently at high altitudes, reads the study.
The interviews and informal discussions were conducted mostly with herders, farmers, peat block extractors, and village elites. Participatory Rural Appraisal/Participatory Learning and Action tools were also used to assess the situation in the area. Information was collected on demography, education, socioeconomic factors, livestock holdings, peat utilization and occupation, Hamid.
During the study, it was found that some villages have already used 90% of their peat. If peat consumption continues at the present rate, it is estimated that in 20-30 years, all the peatlands will have become a wasteland, he warmed.
Conservation of existing peatlands and restoration and rehabilitation of the degraded peat-lands through community participation is important to minimize pressure. Broghil, he continued, is one of the most important valleys in the region by its strategic location; it borders the famous Wakhan Strip of Afghanistan and is connected to Afghanistan in the northwest via the famous Broghil Pass and Darwaza.
It has several peat-land areas. Located above 3,000 masl, Broghil has relatively harsh climatic conditions. The valley is rich in medicinal plant resources and has more than 80 medicinal plant species. However, the local people cannot identify, process, and market these valuable plant species.
The alpine pastures and rugged slopes of Broghil Valley create a favorable habitat for various mammals, including endangered species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, brown bear, blue sheep, wolf, red fox, golden marmot, and lynx. Recognized as the gateway of the Indus Flyway to South Asia, Broghil Valley holds global significance. A joint effort by WWF-Pakistan and the Pakistan Wetlands Programme identified 83 bird species in 30 families and 13 orders in the valley.
Characterized by over 30 lakes, peatland areas, the Broghil River, and glaciers, the valley presents immense potential for ecotourism. Historical passes connect Broghil Valley to Gilgit-Baltistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and China. Some villages, like Chikar and Iskarwaz, have heavily depleted communal peatlands, relying on government-owned areas for fuel.
Seasonal trends in peat use vary, with households consuming 100-150 kg per day in summer and 200-300 kg in winter. Snowfall restricts mobility in winter, increasing energy demand met by burning peat.
Excessive peatland use leads to habitat loss, reduced grazing land productivity, heightened greenhouse gas emissions, and respiratory issues. If the current consumption persists, the study estimates severe degradation in 20-30 years.
Recommendations include restoring degraded peatlands through community mobilization, conserving existing resources, creating marketing mechanisms, raising awareness, identifying alternative fuel sources, designing fuel-efficient stoves, and developing a comprehensive database.
Implementation should involve local communities, with options for linking peatlands to the REDD+ mechanism to benefit the community at the grassroots level.