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Extreme Heat Comes for the Red Chile Capital of Pakistan
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- Pakistan is a leading global producer of red chile peppers, with the town of Kunri recognized as its red chile capital, where traditional sun-drying methods are used.
- Extreme weather conditions, including heat, floods, and drought, are threatening the traditional farming lifestyle in Kunri, causing significant crop damage and economic uncertainty for farmers.
- Ahsan Ali Dars, a local farmer, faces severe challenges as his chile fields suffer from scorching heat and lack of rain, with temperatures reaching up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Agriculture is a critical sector in Pakistan, contributing nearly 25% to the economy and employing half of the workforce, but the country is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
- The devastating 2022 floods destroyed approximately 4.5 million acres of farmland, particularly affecting Sindh and Punjab provinces, and farmers are still struggling to recover from the losses.
