DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT Intro: Out of many species of Eucalypti tested, Eucalyptus camaldulensis has emerged to be the best species for afforestation of dry tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. In Pakistan, it has proved to be the most promising fast growing tree for dry afforestation and consating desortafication. For these reasons, Eucalyptus is planted in blocks and linear rows on farmlands, dry areas, marginal lands, as shelter belts and control of waterlogging and salinity in the plains of Pakistan. At the same time, Eucalyptus is facing many accusations like lowering of water table and recent water shortage. With this prospective, the validity of these accusations is very essential before making any decision to use or not to use this species for planting on different sites. It is feared that in our biased attitude towards Eucalyptus, may not we forget or lose a tree species of un-paralleled advantages for the land and people of Pakistan. Furthermore, the drought and associated water shortage in a country like Pakistan could be due to periodicity of climatic phenomena occurring locally, regionally or globally. But, it is astonishing that how a single tree species (Eucalyptus) and that too raised in small blocks, linear rows and planted over a very limited area could be responsible for such a large scale catastrophe. The present water shortage and lowering of water table, in many parts of Pakistan could be due to many other reasons. Change in life style and fast urbanization with extended home comforts and increasing sense of personal hygiene are the reasons for this dilemma. Hand and animal driven wells and pitcher system of water supply is being replaced with machine pumping, overhead tanks and house to house piped supply of water. These may be the main causes for the changing water supply and demand scenario in the country.