Distribution of Rangelands and Freshwater Resources (Lentic & Lotic) in Khaplu, Ghanche, Gilgit‐Baltistan, Pakistan: A Baseline Study for Sustainable Management and Restoration of Natural Resources

Abstract

ABSTRACT The natural resources of Gilgit‐Baltistan (GB), including rangelands and freshwater ecosystems, are facing unprecedented degradation due to climatic and anthropogenic pressures. However, baseline data for these critical resources in the understudied Khaplu Division remain scarce, hindering effective conservation and management. This study provides the first comprehensive spatial assessment of rangelands and freshwater resources (lentic and lotic) across five valleys (Khaplu Town, Chorbat, Hushey, Saltoro, and Thaley River Valley) in Ghanche District, Baltistan, Pakistan. A systematic field survey was conducted from August to October 2023 using a global positioning system (GPS) device (Garmin, ±0.3 m accuracy) to collect spatial data. ArcGIS 10.3 was used for mapping and area calculation. Classification criteria were based on vegetation cover, species composition, and hydrological characteristics. A total of 34 rangelands (6 types: grassland, savanna, shrubland, desert, tundra, steppe), 34 lotic water resources (4 types: streams, springs, creeks, rivers), and 29 lentic water resources (4 types: ponds, lakes, marshes, swamps) were documented. Grasslands dominated rangelands (41%), streams dominated lotic waters (65%), and ponds dominated lentic waters (69%). Rivers showed significantly larger areas than all other categories ( p < 0.001), with the Shyok River being the most extensive (550 km). Chorbat Valley had the highest proportions of rangelands and lotic resources (32% each), while Khaplu Town supported only lentic resources. This baseline study aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement (climate change mitigation). This study is in line with SDGs 12 (Responsible consumption and production of food), 13 (Climate action), 14 (Life below water), 15 (Life on Land), and 17 (Partnerships with the goals), providing critical data for conservation planning, sustainable resource management, and climate adaptation strategies. The findings emphasize the interdependence between rangeland health and freshwater availability, highlighting the need for integrated restoration approaches.