By Ghalib Nehad
Pakistan, a country of breathtaking landscapes—from the towering Himalayas to the vast deserts of Balochistan—finds itself at the mercy of an increasingly unpredictable climate. In recent years, extreme weather events have not only altered the environment but have also deeply impacted millions of lives, disrupting livelihoods and pushing vulnerable communities to the brink.
Scorching Heatwaves: A Deadly Threat
Pakistan has been grappling with record-breaking heatwaves, with 2024 being one of the deadliest years. Temperatures in Sindh soared to an unbearable 49°C (120.2°F), resulting in 568 deaths and thousands of heat-related illnesses. Dr. Imran Sarwar Sheikh, head of the emergency department at Civil Hospital Karachi, highlighted that the most affected were the elderly and outdoor laborers, underscoring their vulnerability to extreme heat.
The country has seen similar tragedies before. In 2015, a brutal heatwave claimed nearly 2,000 lives in Karachi alone, exacerbated by widespread power outages that left people without cooling options.
Monsoon Rains Turned Deadly
Once a source of life for Pakistan’s agriculture, the monsoon season has become increasingly erratic. The 2022 floods devastated the nation, affecting 33 million people, destroying 2.5 million homes, and killing nearly 1,739 individuals. Sindh suffered the worst, with entire villages submerged, forcing mass displacement.
Despite pledges exceeding $10 billion in international aid, reconstruction efforts have been slow. Bureaucratic hurdles and rising costs have left millions struggling in makeshift shelters, waiting for permanent housing and climate-resilient infrastructure.
Balochistan’s Silent Crisis: Drought and Desperation
While Sindh battled floods, Balochistan endured an entirely different climate catastrophe—drought. Prolonged dry spells have decimated crops and livestock, worsening poverty in agrarian communities. One of the worst droughts, from 1998 to 2002, left a lasting economic impact, crippling food security and forcing mass migration.
In Kashmir, a region known for its snow-capped peaks and scenic lakes, prolonged dry weather has led to a severe water crisis. Once-abundant streams have dried up, forcing authorities to cancel national winter games in Gulmarg, a stark reminder of how climate change is reshaping the region’s natural resources.
The Human Cost: Poverty, Displacement, and Lost Futures
The socioeconomic consequences of climate change in Pakistan are staggering. In Sindh, the 2022 floods triggered a disturbing rise in forced and child marriages, as desperate families married off young daughters to alleviate financial burdens. Dubbed “monsoon brides,” these girls became unintended victims of climate-driven poverty.
In Gwadar, a once-thriving coastal hub, rising sea levels and intensified storms are threatening entire communities. Saltwater intrusion has contaminated drinking water, while changing fish migration patterns have crippled the local fishing industry. If conditions worsen, mass displacement could become inevitable.
A Call for Global Action
Pakistan’s plight has been highlighted on the global stage. At the UN climate negotiations in Baku, former climate minister Sherry Rehman made an urgent plea, stating, “We’re here for life and death reasons.” She called for increased climate finance to help vulnerable nations build resilient infrastructure and transition to sustainable energy.
A Ray of Hope: The Solar Revolution
Despite the challenges, Pakistanis are adapting. Over the past three years, solar energy adoption has surged, with citizens installing more than 25 gigawatts of solar panels—boosting the national power supply by 50%. This shift towards renewable energy showcases the resilience and innovation of the people, offering hope for a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
From deadly heatwaves and catastrophic floods to droughts and economic hardships, Pakistan is facing an escalating climate crisis. The resilience of its people, combined with national and international efforts, will be critical in navigating these challenges. Without immediate action, the human cost of climate change in Pakistan will only continue to rise.
