Pakistan’s Climate Crisis: A Nation on the Frontlines of Global Warming

Pakistan is facing one of the worst climate crises in the world, despite contributing less than 1% to global carbon emissions. With its unique location between the Himalayas and the Arabian Sea, the country experiences extreme weather, including floods, heatwaves, and droughts. As these climate disasters worsen, millions of people are at risk, and Pakistan’s environment and economy are under serious threat.

The Reality of Climate Change in Pakistan

Climate change is no longer a distant problem for Pakistan; it is happening right now. In 2022, the country suffered one of its worst disasters—massive floods caused by heavy monsoon rains and melting glaciers. A third of Pakistan was submerged, affecting 33 million people and displacing 8 million. The damages totaled around $30 billion, destroying homes, crops, and infrastructure and leaving many in despair.

In cities like Karachi and Jacobabad, extreme heat has become life-threatening, with temperatures soaring above 50°C (122°F). This heat is not just uncomfortable; it is deadly, especially for the poor who lack access to air conditioning or reliable healthcare. Heatwaves are causing dehydration, heat strokes, and rising death rates.

Agriculture in Danger

Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, employing nearly 40% of the workforce. However, climate change is making farming more difficult. Unpredictable rainfall, long droughts, and rising temperatures are reducing crop yields, especially for wheat and rice, which are essential for Pakistanis.

Water scarcity is another major challenge. The Indus River, which provides water to 90% of the country’s farmland, is under threat as Himalayan glaciers melt rapidly. As these glaciers disappear, farmers will struggle to irrigate their fields. Additionally, sudden glacial floods in the north are already destroying villages and livelihoods.

What the Future Holds

Experts warn that Pakistan’s temperature could rise by 1.5°C to 2°C by 2050, making extreme weather events even more severe. By the end of the century, the Indus River’s water supply could shrink by 40%, leading to major food shortages.

Pakistan’s coastal cities, especially Karachi, are also at risk due to rising sea levels. If climate change continues unchecked, many communities may be forced to relocate, creating a crisis of internal displacement. Moreover, warmer temperatures will allow diseases like dengue and malaria to spread more easily.

The economic impact of climate change is also alarming. The World Bank estimates that 62 million Pakistanis could fall into poverty by 2030 due to climate-related disasters. By 2050, the country’s GDP could shrink by up to 20%. As resources become scarce, social tensions could also rise, leading to further instability.

Pakistan’s Efforts to Fight Climate Change
Pakistan is taking steps to address the crisis. The government has introduced the National Climate Change Policy and launched projects like the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami to increase forest cover. Investments in solar and wind energy are also helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, early warning systems and stronger infrastructure are being developed to protect against future disasters.

However, Pakistan cannot tackle this crisis alone. The country needs international support to deal with the damage and build a climate-resilient future. Although Pakistan played a key role in securing the COP27 loss and damage fund, delays in funding continue to slow progress. Global cooperation, financial aid, and technology transfer are essential to Pakistan’s survival.

A Shared Global Responsibility
Pakistan’s struggle highlights a bigger global injustice—countries that contribute the least to climate change are suffering the most. The world must recognize that climate change is a shared problem that requires urgent action. Wealthy nations must fulfill their climate financing promises, while all countries must work together to cut emissions and create a sustainable future.

For Pakistan, time is running out. If the world fails to act now, what is already a crisis could become a catastrophe. The decisions made today will determine whether Pakistan—and other vulnerable nations—can survive the climate challenges of tomorrow.

Khawar Abbas Research Scholar
Rajakhawar.edurwp@gmail.com