Ms.SajjdaLodhi NotesBased on Class 9th Pak.Std Chapter3.docx

Ms.Saajjdalodhi Notes
Class 9th FBISE
Chapter 3
Chapter 3: Land and Environment

Q1. Describe the main physical features of Pakistan.
Answer:
Pakistan is blessed with diverse physical features that affect its climate, agriculture, economy, and lifestyle. The country can be divided into four major physical regions:
1. The Northern and North-Western Mountains:
These include the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges.
o Karakoram Range includes K-2 (Mount Godwin Austen), the second highest peak in the world (8,611 m).
o These mountains are covered with glaciers such as Siachen, Baltoro, and Biafo, which are important sources of water for the rivers of Pakistan.
o They act as natural barriers and protect Pakistan from cold winds of Central Asia.
2. The Western Mountains:
o These ranges include Sulaiman, Kirthar, and Waziristan ranges.
o They separate Pakistan from Afghanistan and Iran.
o The passes like Khyber Pass, Bolan Pass, and Gomal Pass are of great strategic and trade importance.
o The region is rich in minerals such as coal, chromite, and gypsum.
3. The Indus Plain:
o This is the most fertile and densely populated region of Pakistan.
o It extends from Kashmir to the Arabian Sea.
o The plain is irrigated by the Indus River and its tributaries (Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, Beas).
o Major crops: wheat, rice, sugarcane, and cotton.
o Major cities: Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Hyderabad.
4. The Balochistan Plateau:
o Located in the west, covering the largest area with low population density.
o The land is mostly mountainous and dry, with scarce rainfall.
o Contains minerals such as coal, copper, and natural gas (Sui gas).
o The people depend on livestock and dry farming.
5. The Coastal Areas:
o Pakistan has a coastline of about 1,046 km along the Arabian Sea.
o Major ports: Karachi Port and Gwadar Port.
o The area has fishing and trade importance.
Conclusion:
Pakistan’s diverse physical features not only enrich its natural beauty but also play a vital role in shaping its economy, agriculture, and population distribution.
________________________________________
Q2. Describe the main climatic regions of Pakistan.
Answer:
Pakistan experiences a variety of climatic conditions due to differences in altitude, latitude, and distance from the sea. The major climatic regions of Pakistan are:
1. Hot and Dry Climate (Southern Plains and Balochistan Plateau):
o Found in Sindh, Southern Punjab, and Balochistan.
o Summers are very hot (up to 50°C in places like Jacobabad).
o Rainfall is scarce, and the region faces droughts.
o Vegetation is limited to shrubs and thorny bushes.
2. Arid and Semi-Arid Climate (Western Pakistan):
o Found in Quetta, Chaghi, and Zhob areas.
o Rainfall is very low and irregular.
o Winters are cold, and summers are mild.
3. Temperate Climate (Northern and North-Western Mountains):
o Found in Murree, Abbottabad, Swat, Gilgit, and Skardu.
o Cool summers and cold, snowy winters.
o Receives rainfall from both monsoon and western

1. Ms.Saajjdalodhi Notes
Class 9
th
FBISE
Chapter 3
Chapter 3: Land and Environment
Q1. Describe the main physical features of Pakistan.
Answer:
Pakistan is blessed with diverse physical features that affect its
climate, agriculture, economy, and lifestyle. The country can be
divided into four major physical regions :
1.The Northern and North-Western Mountains:
These include the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush
ranges.
oKarakoram Range includes K-2 (Mount Godwin
Austen) , the second highest peak in the world (8,611
m) .

2. oThese mountains are covered with glaciers such as
Siachen, Baltoro, and Biafo , which are important
sources of water for the rivers of Pakistan.
oThey act as natural barriers and protect Pakistan from
cold winds of Central Asia.
2.The Western Mountains:
oThese ranges include Sulaiman, Kirthar, and
Waziristan ranges .
oThey separate Pakistan from Afghanistan and Iran.
oThe passes like Khyber Pass, Bolan Pass, and Gomal
Pass are of great strategic and trade importance.
oThe region is rich in minerals such as coal, chromite,
and gypsum.
3.The Indus Plain:
oThis is the most fertile and densely populated region of
Pakistan.
oIt extends from Kashmir to the Arabian Sea .
oThe plain is irrigated by the Indus River and its
tributaries (Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, Beas) .
oMajor crops: wheat, rice, sugarcane, and cotton.
oMajor cities: Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Hyderabad.
4.The Balochistan Plateau:

3. oLocated in the west, covering the largest area with low
population density.
oThe land is mostly mountainous and dry , with scarce
rainfall.
oContains minerals such as coal, copper, and natural
gas (Sui gas).
oThe people depend on livestock and dry farming .
5.The Coastal Areas:
oPakistan has a coastline of about 1,046 km along the
Arabian Sea .
oMajor ports: Karachi Port and Gwadar Port .
oThe area has fishing and trade importance .
Conclusion:
Pakistan’s diverse physical features not only enrich its natural
beauty but also play a vital role in shaping its economy,
agriculture, and population distribution.
Q2. Describe the main climatic regions of Pakistan.
Answer:
Pakistan experiences a variety of climatic conditions due to
differences in altitude, latitude, and distance from the sea. The
major climatic regions of Pakistan are:

4. 1.Hot and Dry Climate (Southern Plains and Balochistan
Plateau):
oFound in Sindh, Southern Punjab, and Balochistan.
oSummers are very hot (up to 50°C in places like
Jacobabad).
oRainfall is scarce , and the region faces droughts.
oVegetation is limited to shrubs and thorny bushes.
2.Arid and Semi-Arid Climate (Western Pakistan):
oFound in Quetta, Chaghi, and Zhob areas .
oRainfall is very low and irregular.
oWinters are cold, and summers are mild.
3.Temperate Climate (Northern and North-Western
Mountains):
oFound in Murree, Abbottabad, Swat, Gilgit, and
Skardu .
oCool summers and cold, snowy winters .
oReceives rainfall from both monsoon and western
winds .
oFavourable for forests and fruit cultivation (apples,
apricots, etc.).
4.Coastal Climate:
oFound in Karachi and Makran Coast .

5. oModerate temperatures due to the influence of the sea.
oHumid climate, with mild winters and warm summers.
5.Extreme Continental Climate:
oFound in upper Punjab and interior Sindh .
oHot summers and cold winters .
oRainfall mainly in monsoon season (July–September).
Conclusion:
The climate of Pakistan varies from region to region, affecting
lifestyle, agriculture, and settlement patterns.
Q3. Explain the main natural resources of Pakistan and their
importance.
Answer:
Natural resources are gifts of nature that help in economic
development. Pakistan is rich in various natural resources, such
as minerals, water, forests, and energy resources .
1.Mineral Resources:
oPakistan has large deposits of coal, natural gas, oil,
copper, gypsum, salt, and chromite .
oNatural gas (Sui field) is used in industries, homes, and
transport.
oSalt is mined from the Khewra Salt Mine , one of the
world’s largest.

6. oCopper and gold are found in Saindak and Reko Diq
(Balochistan).
2.Water Resources:
oThe Indus River System is the lifeline of Pakistan’s
agriculture.
oMajor dams: Tarbela, Mangla, and Warsak .
oUsed for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and drinking
water .
oCanal irrigation system is one of the largest in the
world.
3.Forest Resources:
oForests cover about 4–5% of Pakistan’s area.
oFound in northern mountains and along rivers.
oProvide wood, shelter, fuel, and prevent soil erosion .
oImportant forests: Changa Manga, Malakand, and
Swat.
4.Energy Resources:
oThermal energy: produced from coal and oil.
oHydel power: generated from rivers (Tarbela, Mangla
dams).
oRenewable energy: solar and wind energy are being
developed in Sindh and Balochistan.

7. Importance:
These resources support industries, agriculture, and daily
life .
Contribute to foreign exchange earnings .
Proper utilization can make Pakistan self-reliant and
prosperous.
Q4. Discuss the main environmental problems faced by Pakistan
and their solutions.
Answer:
Pakistan faces several environmental challenges due to
population growth, industrialization, and deforestation. Major
problems include:
1.Deforestation:
oOnly 4–5% of the land is forested.
oCaused by illegal cutting of trees, overgrazing, and
urbanization.
oEffects: soil erosion, floods, and loss of biodiversity.
oSolution: Afforestation programs, like “Ten Billion
Tree Tsunami” , should be promoted.
2.Air Pollution:
oEmission from vehicles, factories, and burning of fossil
fuels .

8. oEffects: health issues, smog in Lahore, and global
warming.
oSolution: Use of public transport, clean fuels, and
environmental laws.
3.Water Pollution:
oWaste from factories and sewage pollutes rivers.
oEffects: diseases like cholera and loss of aquatic life.
oSolution: Treatment of industrial waste before disposal.
4.Soil Erosion:
oCaused by deforestation, overgrazing, and improper
farming.
oSolution: Tree plantation and terrace farming.
5.Climate Change:
oDue to greenhouse gases and deforestation.
oEffects: irregular rainfall, floods, and droughts.
oSolution: Reduce carbon emissions, plant trees, and
use renewable energy.
Conclusion:
Environmental protection is essential for a sustainable future.
Public awareness and strict enforcement of environmental laws
are necessary for improvement.
Q5. Describe the importance of forests in Pakistan.

9. Answer:
Forests are vital for environmental balance, economic
development, and human survival.
1.Environmental Importance:
oForests absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen ,
reducing air pollution.
oThey prevent soil erosion and floods by holding soil
and water.
oThey help maintain climatic balance and increase
rainfall .
2.Economic Importance:
oProvide timber, fuel wood, paper, and medicinal
plants .
oSupport wood-based industries such as furniture and
paper mills.
oSource of employment and income for rural
populations.
3.Wildlife Protection:
oForests provide habitat and food for wildlife.
oPromote eco-tourism in areas like Swat and Murree.
4.Hydrological Importance:

10. oForests help in recharging groundwater and
maintaining river flow.
Conclusion:
Forests are the lungs of the Earth. Pakistan must increase its
forest cover through afforestation and conservation programs
to ensure a healthy environment and sustainable future.
Section B — Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
(Each for 1 mark, with correct answer in bold)
1.The second highest mountain in the world is:
a) Mount Everest
b) K-2
c) Nanga Parbat
d) Broad Peak
2.The Karakoram Range lies in:
a) Northern Pakistan
b) Balochistan
c) Sindh
d) Punjab
3.The Khyber Pass connects Pakistan with:
b) Afghanistan
a) China
c) India
d) Iran
4.The Indus River originates from:
a) Tibet
b) Afghanistan
c) Balochistan
d) Punjab

11. 5.The main occupation of the Indus Plain is:
c) Agriculture
a) Mining
b) Fishing
d) Tourism
6.The Balochistan Plateau is rich in:
b) Minerals
a) Forests
c) Rainfall
d) Water
7.Gwadar Port is located in:
b) Balochistan
a) Sindh
c) Punjab
d) KPK
8.The total length of Pakistan’s coastline is about:
a) 1,046 km
b) 500 km
c) 2,000 km
d) 1,500 km
9.The hottest place in Pakistan is:
b) Jacobabad
a) Murree
c) Quetta
d) Gilgit
10.The coldest place in Pakistan is:
c) Skardu
a) Karachi
b) Multan
d) Sukkur
11.The climate of northern mountains is:
a) Cold and temperate
b) Hot and dry

12. c) Humid
d) Arid
12.Sui gas field is located in:
c) Balochistan
a) Punjab
b) Sindh
d) KPK
13.The largest salt mine of Pakistan is:
a) Khewra
b) Kalabagh
c) Chaghi
d) Dera Bugti
14.The Indus River flows into:
b) Arabian Sea
a) Bay of Bengal
c) Indian Ocean
d) Persian Gulf
15.The main source of irrigation in Pakistan is:
a) Canal system
b) Tube wells
c) Rain
d) Lakes
16.The Mangla Dam is built on River:
b) Jhelum
a) Indus
c) Chenab
d) Sutlej
17.The Tarbela Dam is built on River:
a) Indus
b) Ravi
c) Sutlej
d) Chenab

13. 18.Forests of Changa Manga are located in:
a) Punjab
b) Sindh
c) KPK
d) Balochistan
19.The main cause of deforestation is:
b) Population growth
a) Floods
c) Tourism
d) Cold climate
20.The percentage of forest area in Pakistan is about:
c) 4–5%
a) 10%
b) 8%
d) 15%
21.The main source of hydroelectric power in Pakistan is:
a) Rivers
b) Oil
c) Wind
d) Coal
22.The Bolan Pass connects Pakistan with:
d) Afghanistan
a) China
b) India
c) Iran
23.The coastal climate is found in:
a) Karachi and Makran Coast
b) Murree and Abbottabad
c) Multan and Faisalabad
d) Quetta and Zhob
24.Pakistan’s largest natural gas field is:
b) Sui Field
a) Qadirpur

14. c) Uch
d) Mari
25.The Western Mountains are important because:
c) They contain passes and minerals
a) They are fertile
b) They are covered with forests
d) They have dense population
26.The soil of Indus Plain is:
b) Alluvial and fertile
a) Rocky
c) Sandy
d) Clayey
27.Which is a renewable source of energy?
d) Solar power
a) Coal
b) Oil
c) Gas
28.Which dam was completed in 1976?
a) Tarbela Dam
b) Mangla Dam
c) Warsak Dam
d) Kalabagh Dam
29.The “Ten Billion Tree Tsunami” project was launched
to:
c) Increase forest cover
a) Build dams
b) Produce energy
d) Control floods
30.The pass that connects Quetta with Afghanistan is:
a) Khojak Pass
b) Khyber Pass
c) Bolan Pass
d) Gomal Pass

15. 31.The most important river of Pakistan is:
b) Indus River
a) Jhelum
c) Chenab
d) Ravi
32.The Balochistan Plateau mostly depends on:
c) Livestock and dry farming
a) Fishing
b) Forestry
d) Mining
33.The largest province of Pakistan by area is:
a) Balochistan
b) Punjab
c) Sindh
d) KPK
34.The main factor affecting rainfall in Pakistan is:
c) Monsoon winds
a) Ocean currents
b) Volcanoes
d) Earthquakes
35.The area with moderate climate in Pakistan is:
a) Coastal areas
b) Northern mountains
c) Western plateau
d) Indus plain
36.Which of the following is a mineral found in Pakistan?
b) Chromite
a) Diamond
c) Silver
d) Uranium
37.The main occupation in Balochistan is:
a) Animal rearing
b) Farming

16. c) Fishing
d) Manufacturing
38.The forests in northern Pakistan are mostly:
c) Coniferous
a) Tropical
b) Deciduous
d) Mangrove
39.The Makran Coast is part of which province?
b) Balochistan
a) Sindh
c) Punjab
d) KPK
40.Mangrove forests are found in:
a) Indus Delta
b) Murree Hills
c) Balochistan Plateau
d) Swat Valley
41.Soil erosion is mainly caused by:
a) Deforestation
b) Fertilizers
c) Waterlogging
d) Salinity
42.The climate of Murree is:
c) Temperate and pleasant
a) Hot
b) Dry
d) Humid
43.The largest desert of Pakistan is:
a) Thar Desert
b) Cholistan
c) Thal
d) Nara

17. 44.Reko Diq is famous for:
b) Gold and copper
a) Iron
c) Oil
d) Coal
45.The river that flows near Multan is:
c) Chenab River
a) Jhelum
b) Indus
d) Ravi
46.Which region is least populated in Pakistan?
b) Balochistan Plateau
a) Punjab Plain
c) Karachi
d) KPK
47.The area between Indus and Jhelum rivers is called:
a) Doab
b) Delta
c) Plain
d) Valley
48.The monsoon season in Pakistan lasts from:
b) July to September
a) January to March
c) April to June
d) October to December
49.Which of the following is not a dam?
d) Khewra
a) Tarbela
b) Mangla
c) Warsak
50.Which of the following helps in reducing pollution?
a) Planting trees
b) Cutting forests

18. c) Burning waste
d) Increasing vehicles
✅ MCQs Answers – Chapter 3: Land and Environment
No.Question (Short Title) Correct Answer
1Second highest mountain b) K-2
2Karakoram Range lies in a) Northern Pakistan
3Khyber Pass connects withb) Afghanistan
4Indus River originates froma) Tibet
5Main occupation of Indus Plainc) Agriculture
6Balochistan Plateau rich inb) Minerals
7Gwadar Port location b) Balochistan
8Pakistan’s coastline lengtha) 1,046 km
9Hottest place in Pakistanb) Jacobabad
10Coldest place in Pakistanc) Skardu
11Climate of northern mountainsa) Cold and temperate
12Sui gas field located inc) Balochistan
13Largest salt mine a) Khewra
14Indus River flows into b) Arabian Sea
15Main source of irrigationa) Canal system
16Mangla Dam built on riverb) Jhelum
17Tarbela Dam built on rivera) Indus
18Changa Manga forest locationa) Punjab
19Main cause of deforestationb) Population growth
20Forest area percentage c) 4–5%
21Source of hydroelectric powera) Rivers
22Bolan Pass connects withd) Afghanistan
23Coastal climate found in
a) Karachi and Makran
Coast
24Largest natural gas fieldb) Sui Field
25Importance of Western Mountainsc) Passes and minerals

19. No.Question (Short Title) Correct Answer
26Soil of Indus Plain b) Alluvial and fertile
27Renewable source of energyd) Solar power
28Dam completed in 1976 a) Tarbela Dam
29
Purpose of Ten Billion Tree
Project
c) Increase forest cover
30
Pass connecting Quetta with
Afghanistan
a) Khojak Pass
31Most important river b) Indus River
32Livelihood in Balochistan
c) Livestock and dry
farming
33Largest province by areaa) Balochistan
34Factor affecting rainfallc) Monsoon winds
35Area with moderate climatea) Coastal areas
36Mineral found in Pakistanb) Chromite
37Main occupation in Balochistana) Animal rearing
38Forests in northern Pakistanc) Coniferous
39Makran Coast located in b) Balochistan
40Mangrove forests found ina) Indus Delta
41Main cause of soil erosiona) Deforestation
42Climate of Murree
c) Temperate and
pleasant
43Largest desert of Pakistana) Thar Desert
44Reko Diq famous for b) Gold and copper
45River near Multan c) Chenab River
46Least populated region b) Balochistan Plateau
47Area between two rivers a) Doab
48Monsoon season months b) July to September
49Not a dam d) Khewra
50Helps reduce pollution a) Planting trees
Chapter 3: Land and Environment

20. (Short Questions & Answers )
(Each carries 3 marks — for Board exams)
Q1. Name the major physical regions of Pakistan.
Answer:
Pakistan has five major physical regions:
1.Northern and North-Western Mountains – including
Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush ranges.
2.Western Mountains – such as Sulaiman and Kirthar
ranges.
3.Indus Plain – the most fertile and densely populated region.
4.Balochistan Plateau – a dry, mineral-rich area.
5.Coastal Areas – along the Arabian Sea, including Karachi
and Gwadar coasts.
Q2. What is the importance of the Indus River System?
Answer:
The Indus River System is the lifeline of Pakistan’s agriculture .
Provides irrigation through an extensive canal network.
Source of hydroelectric power (Tarbela and Mangla dams).
Supplies drinking and industrial water and supports
fisheries.
Q3. Write three features of the Northern Mountains.
Answer:
1.Contain K-2 (8,611 m) , the world’s second highest peak.
2.Have huge glaciers like Siachen and Baltoro.
3.Serve as natural protection barriers and sources of major
rivers.
Q4. What is the importance of the Khyber Pass?
Answer:
Connects Pakistan and Afghanistan , serving as a key trade
route.
Holds strategic and historical importance for invasions and
trade.

21. Facilitates cultural exchange and transport between South
and Central Asia.
Q5. Where are the Western Mountains located and what is their
importance?
Answer:
Located along Pakistan’s western border with Afghanistan
and Iran.
Contain mineral deposits like coal and chromite.
Have important passes (Bolan, Gomal) used for trade and
defense.
Q6. Describe the climate of the coastal areas of Pakistan.
Answer:
Found in Karachi and Makran Coast .
Moderate and humid climate due to sea influence.
Summers are warm , winters are mild , and rainfall is low.
Q7. Which factors affect the climate of Pakistan?
Answer:
1.Latitude: Areas near the equator are hotter.
2.Altitude: Higher regions (e.g., Murree) are cooler.
3.Distance from Sea: Coastal areas are moderate; inland
areas are extreme.
4.Winds: Monsoon and western winds influence rainfall.
Q8. Write three main mineral resources of Pakistan.
Answer:
1.Coal – used in power generation.
2.Natural Gas (Sui Field) – used in homes and industries.
3.Copper and Gold (Reko Diq) – for industrial use and
export.
Q9. What are the uses of forests?
Answer:
1.Provide timber, fuel, and paper .
2.Prevent soil erosion and floods.
3.Maintain oxygen balance and support wildlife.

22. Q10. What are renewable sources of energy? Give examples.
Answer:
Renewable energy sources can be reused or replenished
naturally .
Examples:
1.Solar energy
2.Wind energy
3.Hydroelectric power
Q11. What are the main causes of deforestation in Pakistan?
Answer:
1.Population growth leading to excessive wood cutting.
2.Urbanization and construction .
3.Overgrazing and illegal logging .
Q12. What are the effects of air pollution?
Answer:
1.Causes respiratory and heart diseases .
2.Produces smog , especially in major cities like Lahore.
3.Contributes to global warming and climate change .
Q13. Write three measures to control environmental pollution.
Answer:
1.Launch afforestation programs to increase greenery.
2.Promote public transport and clean energy .
3.Enforce environmental laws to regulate industrial waste.
Q14. Name the major dams of Pakistan and their rivers.
Answer:
1.Tarbela Dam – River Indus
2.Mangla Dam – River Jhelum
3.Warsak Dam – River Kabul
These dams provide irrigation, hydroelectric power, and flood
control .
Q15. What is the importance of the Balochistan Plateau?
Answer:
1.Rich in minerals like coal, copper, and gas.

23. 2.Provides grazing land for livestock.
3.Important for dry farming and mining .
Q16. How do forests help in controlling floods?
Answer:
Forest roots hold soil and absorb rainwater , reducing
runoff.
Prevent soil erosion and landslides.
Maintain groundwater balance and reduce flood risk.
Q17. What are the main causes of water pollution in Pakistan?
Answer:
1.Industrial waste dumped into rivers.
2.Sewage and household waste mixing with water bodies.
3.Use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture.
Q18. What is soil erosion and what causes it?
Answer:
Soil erosion is the removal of the upper fertile soil layer by
wind or water.
Causes:
1.Deforestation
2.Overgrazing
3.Improper farming methods
Q19. Why is Pakistan’s climate mostly dry?
Answer:
1.Low rainfall due to weak monsoon winds.
2.Distance from the sea – most areas are inland.
3.Surrounded by mountain barriers that block moist winds.
Q20. What steps can the government take for environmental
protection?
Answer:
1.Implement strict environmental laws .
2.Launch tree plantation drives (e.g., Ten Billion Tree
Project).
3.Educate the public and promote eco-friendly practices.

24. Summary for Revision:
Physical Regions: 5
Climatic Zones: 5
Natural Resources : minerals, water, forests, energy
Main Environmental Issues: deforestation, pollution, soil
erosion
Solutions: tree plantation, clean energy, awareness