URBANIZATION EFFECT ON PLANT DIVERSITY AND AGRICULTURAL LAND, CASE STUDY OF SAKAR VALLEY DISTRICT GILGIT, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Urbanization has had a significant impact on the unique floral diversity and agricultural land of Gilgit district, which once boasted a rich variety of herbs, shrubs, and trees. Unfortunately, the expansion of construction, roads, and other infrastructure has led to the transformation of more and more land, resulting in noticeable consequences in the study area. To address this issue, the present study proposes mitigation strategies that focus on urban planning, prioritizing green spaces, and conserving native plant species. One evident effect of urbanization is the alarming loss of wild vegetation and green spaces, which has caused a decline in the abundance and diversity of plant species. Notably, cultivated species such as Populus Alba (with an IVI value of 4.52), Juglans Regia (with an IVI value of 5.94), and wild species like Artemisia Brevifolia (with an IVI value of (1.49001) and Artemisia Seversiania (with an IVI value of (3.15674) have experienced a significant reduction in their populations over the last few years. These declining IVI values serve as indicators of the adverse effects of urbanization on the once-thriving plant life in the area. The study also examined the soil in the area, dividing it into two zones and testing its texture and mineral percentage. Zone one exhibited sandy loam texture with a pH of 7.63, and nutrient percentages were as follows: P 5.05%, K 46.84%, Cu2 2.18%, Fe2 5.38%, Mn2 1.24, and Zn2 1.65. On the other hand, zone two showed silt loamy texture with a pH of 7.82, and nutrient percentages were as follows: P 9.33%, K 86.01%, Cu2 4.28%, Fe2 3.62%, Mn2 2.44%, Zn2 1.49%. The study reveals that soil factors, altitude, and organic matter influence vegetation variation. Urbanization negatively affects native plants and agriculture in Gilgit. Urgent preservation measures are needed. Urban planning should prioritize green spaces and native plant conservation to mitigate urbanization's impact, protect floral diversity, and preserve the region's agricultural heritage.