Impact of Peri-Urban Agriculture on Food Self-Sufficiency of Faisalabad: Exploring the Contribution of Per-Urban Agriculture to Sustainable Food Systems in Faisalabad

Maryam Noor; Liaqat Ali Waseem; Khadija Ashraf; Aqeel Haider; Komal Farhat

Authors

Maryam Noor Government College University Faisalabad
Liaqat Ali Waseem Government College University Faisalabad
Khadija Ashraf Department of Convergence and Fusion System Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Sangju-si, Republic of Korea
Aqeel Haider Government College University Faisalabad
Komal Farhat Lecturer Govt College (w) Shalimar Town Lahore

Keywords:

Peri Urban Agriculture, Food security, Food Access, Food Self-Sufficiency, Nutrient-Rich Crops, Urban Planning, Nutritional Impact

Abstract

Introduction/ Importance of Study: Peri-urban agriculture plays a vital role in enhancing food self-sufficiency and improving nutritional outcomes, particularly in growing cities like Faisalabad, Punjab. This study assesses how it affects local production, household food supply, and stakeholder integration along the urban–rural interface.
Materials and Methods: Data were collected from 100 peri-urban farming households in Faisalabad using structured questionnaires. The survey included variables such as land ownership, crop types, agricultural income, and vegetable consumption. Additionally, land use changes from 2018 to 2023 were analyzed using GIS tools to observe the impact of urban expansion. Descriptive statistics and Chi-Square tests were applied to assess relationships between food access, nutritional perceptions, and consumption patterns.
Results and Discussion: Findings revealed that households allocated an average of 12.9 Kanals for agriculture, growing seasonal vegetables like turnip, carrot, spinach, and peas. Nearly half of the produce was consumed domestically, while the remainder was sold locally. A significant association (p < 0.05) was found between positive nutritional perceptions and regular access to fresh produce. However, limited government support, weak stakeholder coordination, and inadequate market access emerged as key barriers.
Conclusion: Peri-urban agriculture significantly contributes to household nutrition and food access in Faisalabad. Yet, its broader impact is limited by institutional gaps. Strengthening collaboration among farmers, policymakers, extension workers, and markets is essential for making peri-urban agriculture more resilient and sustainable in urban Pakistan.

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