Climate change catastrophe is taking heavy toll in Pakistan

By Ghulam Haider

Pakistan, a South Asian country known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is grappling with the devastating impacts of climate change.

The nation has been witnessing a series of extreme weather events, highlighting the urgent need for climate action and adaptation strategies.

The recent deadly monsoon rain, heavy snowfall in the northern areas, erratic weather patterns, urban flooding, and the occurrence of natural calamities like floods and heatwaves have collectively wreaked havoc across the country.

In recent weeks, Pakistan has been battered by heavy monsoon rains, resulting in tragic consequences. The downpours have caused severe flooding, leading to the loss of over 50 lives and displacement of thousands of people.

The floods have damaged homes, infrastructure, and agricultural lands, exacerbating the plight of already vulnerable communities.

Intense weather

The intensity and frequency of these monsoon rains have been attributed to climate change, which amplifies the power of weather systems and disrupts traditional rainfall patterns.

Simultaneously, the northern areas of Pakistan have experienced heavy snowfall, with peaks being blanketed in white. While snowfall is not uncommon in these regions during the winter months, the extent and intensity of recent snowfall events have raised concerns.

Snowfall

Excessive snowfall can disrupt transportation, isolate communities, and cause avalanches, endangering the lives of both residents and tourists.

The impact of snowfall on infrastructure, particularly in remote areas, further complicates the situation and highlights the vulnerability of these regions to climate change.

Weather anomalies challenge

The erratic and abnormal weather patterns witnessed across Pakistan are indicative of the changing climate. Unpredictable rainfall, sudden temperature fluctuations, and prolonged dry spells have become more frequent, affecting the livelihoods of farmers and exacerbating water scarcity issues.

These weather anomalies pose challenges to agricultural production, leading to crop failures, reduced yields, and increased food insecurity. The rural communities, which heavily rely on agriculture, bear the brunt of these changing climatic conditions.

Nearly a year after cataclysmic flooding in Pakistan killed over 1,000 people and destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes, monsoon season has returned. At least 24 people have died in weather-related incidents in Pakistan since the rain started last week. pic.twitter.com/nUxQxFobyX

— Human Rights Watch (@hrw) July 6, 2023

Urban flooding

In addition to the rural areas, climate change has also hit urban centres in Pakistan, causing urban flooding and making life miserable for city dwellers.

The inadequate drainage systems, encroachments on natural waterways, and unchecked urbanization exacerbate the impact of heavy rains, resulting in inundated streets, damaged infrastructure, and loss of property.

The urban poor are disproportionately affected by these floods, as they often reside in low-lying areas and lack the resources to cope with such disasters.

PNN News: Situation at a graveyard in Lahore after overnight Monsoon spell of rain

– Graves get engulfed in rain water in a cemetery #PNNNews #PNN #Monsoon #Lahore #Rain #Monsoon2023 #Pakistan @DCLahore #GRAVE #Graveyard #cemetery pic.twitter.com/0y24tC1VEA

— PNN News (@pnnnewspk) July 5, 2023

Heatwaves

Moreover, Pakistan has experienced devastating natural calamities like floods and heatwaves in recent years. These extreme events have caused widespread destruction, claimed numerous lives, and displaced millions of people.

The 2010 floods, considered one of the worst natural disasters in the country’s history, resulted in immense human suffering and economic losses.

Heatwaves, too, have become a recurring phenomenon, particularly in urban areas, where high temperatures combined with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to cooling facilities pose a serious threat to public health.

How to address climate change

Addressing the impacts of climate change in Pakistan requires a multi-faceted approach. It is crucial for the government to prioritize climate action by investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, implementing effective disaster management strategies, and promoting sustainable practices.

"4 Dead, 15 Injured in Heavy Rain and Incidents of Roof and Wall Collapses in Lahore, Pakistan"#Lahore #LahoreRainfall #RoofCollapse #WallCollapse #Rainstorm #IncidentReport #SafetyAwareness #EmergencyResponse pic.twitter.com/wpSsX3Ay8J

— Aqsa Younas Rana (@AqsaYounasRana) July 6, 2023

Enhancing early warning systems, improving water management techniques, and fostering community-based adaptation initiatives can help build resilience and reduce the vulnerability of communities.

Pakistan, despite being one of the least contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, finds itself among the worst five affected countries by the impacts of climate change. This disparity between contribution and vulnerability highlights the fact that climate change is a global phenomenon with localized consequences.

Pakistan’s carbon emissions, although increasing due to industrialization and population growth, are relatively low compared to major global emitters. However, the country is disproportionately impacted by the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, recurrent floods, and prolonged droughts are wreaking havoc on the nation’s economy, environment, and people’s lives.

Least international support

Unfortunately, Pakistan has not received the attention and support it deserves from international climate funds like the Green Climate Fund. This fund was established to assist developing countries in their efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

Lahore Gujranwala Gujrat after barish: #Lahore #Monsoon #Baarish #Rain #DrainageSystem
Situation in Pakistan pic.twitter.com/kjlKLvroDx

— Saba (@SyedaSaba12) July 5, 2023

While Pakistan requires significant financial resources to implement climate adaptation and mitigation measures, it has struggled to access adequate funding. This has hindered the country’s ability to address the impacts of climate change effectively and build resilience against future challenges.

Moreover, the concept of climate justice is crucial in ensuring that the burden of climate change is equitably shared. However, Pakistan has faced challenges in receiving climate financing and achieving climate justice. The lack of attention and support for countries like Pakistan in international climate negotiations and financing mechanisms has further exacerbated the vulnerability of its population to climate change.

Furthermore, international cooperation and support are essential to tackle the global challenge of climate change. Developed nations must fulfil their commitments to provide financial and technological assistance to developing countries like Pakistan, enabling them to adapt to the changing climate and mitigate their greenhouse gas emissions.

According to local news heavy rain in Lahore broke 30 yrs record, with over 200 mm of rain.
The rain has taken 13 lives, injured 21, & damaged properties. The Flood Forecasting Division warns of probable major flooding in river Chenab between July 8-10.https://t.co/RRi2gpfxS9 pic.twitter.com/WKfiFtE6vo

— OCHA Pakistan (@OCHAPakistan) July 6, 2023

Awakening of global conscious 

It is imperative that the international community acknowledges the unique challenges faced by countries like Pakistan and provides the necessary support to mitigate the impact of climate change. Adequate financing, technology transfer, capacity building, and knowledge sharing are essential for Pakistan to develop and implement effective climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Pakistan’s status as one of the least contributors to climate change but among the worst affected countries emphasizes the need for global solidarity and collaboration. It is crucial that international climate funds and mechanisms prioritize the needs of vulnerable nations like Pakistan, ensuring equitable access to resources and support. Only through collective action can we address the impacts of climate change and work towards a sustainable and resilient future for all.

UPDATE : At least seven people were killed in #Lahore as “record-breaking” rain lashed the city, causing urban flooding and damage to infrastructure. #Pakistan's #Punjab caretaker CM @MohsinnaqviC42, said Lahore had received “record” rainfall of 291 millimetres today. https://t.co/BTN2TtRjGk pic.twitter.com/BNpF6UYiKb

— Ghulam Abbas Shah (@ghulamabbasshah) July 5, 2023

Climate change is not a distant threat for Pakistan; it is a present reality with devastating consequences. Urgent action is required at all levels to minimize the impact, protect vulnerable communities, and secure a sustainable future for the nation.

Only through collective efforts and a commitment to sustainable development can Pakistan hope to overcome the heavy toll of climate change and build a resilient and prosperous future for its people.