Pakistan develops smog-tolerant potato variety to protect yields in Punjab

Scientists in Pakistan’s most populous Punjab province have developed a potato variety capable of withstanding smoggy conditions, as authorities seek to protect the crop from the growing impact of air pollution, state media reported this week.

Cities across eastern Punjab regularly rank among the world’s most polluted during the winter months. Prolonged exposure to smog has increasingly affected agricultural production, reducing yields of sensitive crops and increasing vulnerability to pests and diseases, which in turn delays harvests and lowers quality.
 

Smog-tolerant potato research in Punjab

Researchers at the Potato Research Institute (PRI) in Sahiwal have been working to develop potato varieties better suited to smog- and fog-prone environments, according to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).

Dr. Syed Ijazul Hassan, Director at PRI Sahiwal:

"Among locally developed varieties, Ijaz-22 is a smog-specific potato that has successfully tolerated smoggy conditions in Punjab. PRI has already developed 12 fog-tolerant, high-yielding potato varieties and is now focusing on smog-tolerant lines."

Climate stress and disease pressure

Hassan emphasized the importance of integrated pest management and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of smog on potato crops. He noted that smog reduces photosynthesis, accelerates the spread of diseases such as blight and negatively impacts overall tuber quality.

He added that declining potato yields are driven by multiple factors, including rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns and reduced water availability. Common diseases affecting potato crops in Punjab include Potato Leafroll Virus, Potato Virus Y, mosaic virus, early blight, brown leaf spot, Rhizoctonia, common scab and black leg.
 

Seed production and export potential

According to PRI, the institute produced 60 tonnes of potato seed this year, of which 4.55 tonnes were distributed to farmers for cultivation.

Chaudhary Maqsood Ahmad Jatt, Vice Chairman of the Potato Growers Cooperative Society:

"Pakistan has the potential to export potatoes to at least 37 countries, with China emerging as a key destination during the January to April export window."