Raja Iqbal Hussain stands amidst the once barren lands of Shumiyot Bubur, Ghizer, a proud smile breaking across his face. The fields around him, once dusty and desolate, now pulse with life. Rows of trees sway gently in the wind, their leaves shimmering in the sunlight.
“This land was lifeless,” he says, his voice steady with pride. “But now it’s thriving. These trees have brought hope back to our community.”
Raja’s journey is one of transformation. Using a solar-powered lift irrigation system, he has planted 16,000 trees, turning 55 kanal of barren land into a green oasis. The benefits have been profound. Not only has the plantation revitalized the environment, but it has not only brought additional income to Raja’s family but also made fodders available for fifty families in the village . This year, he earned Rs500,000 from selling grass and fodder grown alongside the trees. Inspired by his success, Raja plans to plant 23,000 more saplings in the coming years.
A Region Under Pressure
Raja’s story is one of hope in a region facing an ecological crisis. Gilgit-Baltistan has just 3.58 percent forest cover – contrary to Pakistan’s 5 percent - and its predominantly mountainous terrain—98 percent of the land—leaves little room for agriculture and development.
In Khan Abad, Hunza, solar-powered irrigation systems are enabling local communities to reclaim barren land. One such project has supported the planting of 25,000 trees, with plans to add 100,000 more saplings over the next few years
Deforestation continues to challenge the government, fuelled by the dire needs of G-B’s 1.8 million residents. Harsh winters lasting six months bring daily power outages of up to 21 hours, forcing families to rely on firewood to heat their homes. This dependency depletes the already limited forests, diminishes air quality, and accelerates environmental degradation in a region acutely vulnerable to climate change.
The excessive burning of firewood during winter leads to a thick layer of smoke blanketing Gilgit and Skardu city, significantly impacting public health, especially by causing respiratory issues. "The air pollution in winter has reached hazardous levels, posing serious risks to human health," says Khadim Hussain, a director at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). He further highlights that its due to diminishing green belts in the area, leading to air pollution.
Green Shoots in Diamer
In Diamer, a local Madrasah is joining the fight against deforestation. Students there have planted 10,000 poplar trees on two acres of barren land. This initiative is transforming the desolate area into a lush green space while creating a healthier learning environment.
“These trees will provide shade, improve air quality, and instil a sense of environmental responsibility among the students and teachers,” says Attiullah Baig, a local activist. “This isn’t just about planting trees—it’s about nurturing a future generation that understands the value of conservation.”
Harnessing Clean Energy for Reforestation
In Khan Abad, Hunza, solar-powered irrigation systems are enabling local communities to reclaim barren land. One such project has supported the planting of 25,000 trees, with plans to add 100,000 more saplings over the next few years.
“These systems provide a sustainable water source, helping us turn barren land into productive, forested areas,” says Mustafa Khan, who heads a local community organization.
The Cost of Deforestation
In 2022, flash floods devastated parts of the region especially Ghizer and Diamer valley, destroying homes and infrastructure. “Without forests, there’s nothing to stop the destruction,” says Wilayat Noor, a former conservator in the Forest Department. “The water has nothing to hold it back, and the land gives way.”
According to official estimates, the 2022 floods had a severe impact across Gilgit-Baltistan, leading to the loss of 17 lives and injuries to six others. The total damage was estimated at Rs 7,406 million. Alongside the tragic loss of life, vital infrastructure was also heavily affected: 22 powerhouses and 49 roads were damaged, and 78 drinking water supplies were disrupted.
Planting for the Future
Behind these efforts and the innovations is the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP), which has planted over 47 million forest trees and 4 million fruit trees in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral since its inception. The organization partnered with local communities and facilitated the construction of thousands of irrigation channels and the installation of drip, sprinkler, and solar-powered lift irrigation systems. This year alone, AKRSP facilitated the planting of one million trees as part of its broader plan to plant five million by 2026.
For Raja and the students of the Madrasah in Diamer, these trees represent more than just greenery. They are a shield against the changing climate, a source of income, and a symbol of hope for future generations.
“These trees are not just for us but for our children,” says Raja. “They represent our commitment to safeguarding the future.”
With each sapling planted, Gilgit-Baltistan inches closer to healing its land, securing its communities, and contributing to the global fight against climate change.