Pakistan Bears the Brunt of Climate Change
Pakistan, a nation already grappling with economic and social challenges, is now facing the devastating consequences of climate change. Rising temperatures, floods, and droughts have pushed the country to the forefront of vulnerability, with the 2022 floods being a stark reminder of its susceptibility to climatic disruptions.
The floods, which affected over 33 million people and resulted in unprecedented losses, have underscored the urgent need for climate action. Experts warn of further aggravation if adequate measures are not taken to curb greenhouse gas emissions and provide adaptation funds to strengthen Pakistan’s capacity for climate adaptation.
With its diverse topography and climatic regions, Pakistan is sandwiched between two emerging economies, India and China, and is increasingly at the mercy of extreme weather events attributed to climate change. Rising temperatures accelerate glacial melting, contributing to river swelling and compounding flooding caused by heavy rains.
Heat waves and floods are indicative of the broader impacts of climate change that Pakistan will continue to face in the future. The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events have increased significantly over the past decade, and urgent global climate action is necessary to mitigate these impacts.
Widespread deforestation, inadequate land management practices, and rapid urbanization without proper planning have exacerbated the effects of climate change, resulting in severe flooding and economic losses estimated at around $30 billion.
Pakistan has been raising this issue on international forums, urging carbon-emitting countries to provide financial assistance to promote adaptive strategies and invest in climate-resilient infrastructure. Scientists and experts emphasize the need for a multi-faceted approach, international support, and individual actions to mitigate future risks.
As the phenomenon continues, there is a dire need for developing robust flood defenses, improving drainage systems, ensuring resilient construction practices, promoting afforestation, and adopting sustainable land management practices. The world community must realize the challenges faced by poor and developing nations and equip them with the latest technologies and finances to avert climate change-inflicted damages.”
