Climate Change in Pakistan: Impacts, Consequences, and Pathways to Resilience
Introduction
Pakistan, home to over 240 million people, is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. Despite contributing less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, it faces existential threats from rising temperatures, melting glaciers, catastrophic floods, and worsening water scarcity. This article examines the multifaceted impacts of climate change on Pakistan, its human and economic toll, and actionable solutions to build resilience.
Climate Change Impacts in Pakistan
1. Rising Temperatures
- Pakistan’s average temperature has increased by 0.5°C since the 1960s, with projections suggesting a rise of 1.3–4.9°C by 2100 (Pakistan Meteorological Department).
- Extreme Heatwaves: The 2015 heatwave in Karachi claimed over 1,200 lives, while Jacobabad recently hit 52°C, becoming one of the hottest cities globally.
2. Melting Glaciers
- Pakistan’s 7,532 glaciers (ICIMOD) are retreating at alarming rates, contributing to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). In 2022, a GLOF in Shisper Glacier destroyed homes and infrastructure in Hunza.
3. Floods
- The 2022 super floods, fueled by unprecedented monsoon rains and glacier melt, submerged 1/3 of the country, displacing 8 million people and causing $30 billion in losses (World Bank).
4. Water Scarcity
- Per capita water availability has plummeted from 5,600 cubic meters in 1947 to ~1,000 cubic meters today (UNDP), pushing Pakistan toward “absolute water scarcity” by 2025.
Consequences of Climate Change
Human Toll
- Health: Heatstroke, vector-borne diseases (e.g., dengue), and malnutrition are rising.
- Displacement: Over 50,000 people are displaced annually due to climate disasters (IDMC).
Economic Losses
- Agriculture, which employs 40% of the workforce, suffers from erratic rains and droughts. The 2022 floods destroyed 4.4 million acres of crops, threatening food security.
- Climate-related disasters cost Pakistan $3.8 billion annually (UNDP).
Environmental Degradation
- Biodiversity loss: The snow leopard and Indus River dolphin face habitat destruction.
- Deforestation: Pakistan’s forest cover is just 5.7%, far below the 25% recommended by the UN.
Solutions to Pakistan’s Climate Crisis
1. Renewable Energy Transition
- Pakistan’s solar and wind potential exceeds 40,000 MW. The Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park (1,000 MW) in Punjab and wind farms in Sindh’s Gharo Corridor are steps forward.
- Policy Action: Accelerate the Alternative Energy Policy 2030 to phase out coal and subsidize rooftop solar.
2. Sustainable Agriculture
- Promote drip irrigation and climate-resilient crops (e.g., drought-tolerant wheat). Punjab’s Barani Agroforestry Project has boosted yields while conserving water.
3. Reforestation and Ecosystem Restoration
- The Billion Tree Tsunami (2014–2017) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa restored 350,000 hectares. Scaling up such initiatives can enhance carbon sinks and reduce flood risks.
4. Governmental and International Action
- Strengthen institutions like the Climate Change Ministry and implement the National Climate Change Policy 2021.
- Leverage global funds: Pakistan secured $10 billion post-2022 floods for recovery, but more is needed for adaptation (UN Climate Promise).
End of story:
Pakistan’s climate crisis demands urgent, coordinated action. While transitioning to renewables, adopting climate-smart agriculture, and restoring ecosystems are critical, equitable global climate finance and governance reforms are equally vital. By prioritizing resilience, Pakistan can mitigate suffering and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
References: World Bank, ICIMOD, UNDP, Pakistan Meteorological Department.
