n 2022, our disaster risk management (DRM) failed to mitigate the damage caused by the overflowing rivers.

This is an impact of climate change. Pakistan finds itself at the forefront of the adversity it brings. In the long run, Pakistan requires measures to address water-related problems associated with climate change and to build resilience against future challenges with adaptation policies to adjust to the new reality.

At a glance, several aspects stand out when assessing the country’s climatic trends. The projected temperature increase for Pakistan is expected to exceed the global average (1.4 - 3.7 degrees Celsius by 2060). This will be accompanied by a higher frequency of hot days and nights. Moreover, rainfall patterns and predictability will become more challenging, with fewer rainy days but heavier rainfall expected to become the norm.

These changes pave the way for water scarcity, as water availability is anticipated to reach alarmingly low levels by 2025. Glacier melting will eventually lead to rising sea levels, posing a risk of water intrusion into the Indus delta, reducing the availability of freshwater and causing havoc in the ecosystem.

These factors contribute to extreme weather events, with cyclones, floods and droughts expected to become increasingly common. River floods are already more harmful than before. Almost every year, we see new records for rainfall that often defeat the contingency planning by the authorities.

Nevertheless, some recent projects provide hope for a better future. Communities are not only resilient to the impact of climate change but also able to take proactive measures rather than react after a disaster.

Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the twin cities experiencing rapid urbanisation, have faced issues related to water scarcity and sanitation services. Interventions were carried out to address urban water management through the Australia-Pakistan Water Security Initiative, to address urban water management. The interventions are located in Farash Town (Islamabad) and James Town (Rawalpindi). Both areas are home to vulnerable and at-risk populations. Using the Water Sensitive Cities Approach, nature-based solutions have been implemented to make the cities more sustainable and livable.

With a focus on people-centred and people-powered approaches, communities are educated and empowered to take action. Rain gardens and permeable pavements were installed. This approach helped protect women and children who have historically been at greater risk. Through this project, around 24,500 people gained access to safe water. 525 families have installed rainwater harvesting systems in their homes.

Due to the excessive heat caused by climate change, glacier melting has accelerated, increasing the risk of flooding. To reduce the risk of disaster, the scaling up of glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) risk reduction project was launched in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. With over 7 million people at risk from accelerated glacier melting, 33 glaciers were identified as hazardous.

Engineering structures such as dams, spillways and ponds were created to mitigate this risk. This also contributed to water storage that was later used for agriculture and other purposes. In addition to increasing capacity, efforts were made to improve disaster preparedness, including the installation of 50 automatic weather stations and 408 river discharge sensors to enhance data collection and early warning systems—aiming to make local administrations more aware and responsive to disasters.

Despite the severe consequences of climate change, its impacts are not uniformly experienced. The vulnerability of the poor, landless and women is significantly greater compared to others. Prioritisation of the most vulnerable is necessary. Given the constraints of limited funding, effectiveness of the interventions is an important concern.

In agriculture, climate-smart techniques are essential. Pakistan faces food insecurity and climate-related threats. By improving research and expanding services, farmers can adopt resilient crops and better farming techniques. 

Rapid urbanisation has exacerbated inequality and poverty, leading to increased water scarcity. With limited resources, people often face poor water quality. Consumption is likely to rise due to higher temperatures. Poor water quality and inadequate quantity lead to malnutrition, which is prevalent among lower social classes. These factors contribute to decreased labour productivity and poor education—outcomes governments seek to avoid.

Although the risks and dangers of climate change are daunting, with an analytical approach and proper policy-making, the country can gradually become equipped to face these challenges. First, there is a need to generate data on climate risks and conduct a vulnerability assessment across the country. From an urban perspective, understanding climate vulnerability is crucial for city planning. Slums and peri-urban areas, often neglected in formal land management, need to be integrated into plans for their improvement to reduce vulnerability. Additionally, nature-based solutions should be promoted for urban water security.

In agriculture, climate-smart techniques are essential as Pakistan faces food insecurity and climate-related threats. By improving research and expanding services, existing farmers can adopt resilient crops and better farming techniques to enhance productivity.

An extensive framework for groundwater supply, including an assessment of groundwater and rainfall patterns, can help farmers make informed decisions regarding their practices. For droughts, the government should deploy early warning systems to prepare for dry seasons and train communities to endure climate disasters and manage water resources effectively.

While there is room for improvement in the government’s role in climate change adaptation, the National Adaptation Plan offers hope for a proactive approach in the coming years. The NAP outlines a framework for implementing adaptation, promoting inclusivity and facilitating collaboration among various stakeholders. It also provides a basis for mobilising climate finance.

The document aims to reduce vulnerability to climate impacts through long-term adaptation planning integrated into national policy. Only time will tell if the vision of “a climate-resilient Pakistan with communities possessing socioeconomic and environmental adaptive capacities…” will become a reality.

Pakistan has consistently demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. Although the country is not a major contributor to climate change, it remains one of the most vulnerable nations. It must confront the harsh reality of this challenge to mitigate its risks.

The writer is a University College London graduate with a master’s in urban economic development. He is the co-founder of HamSukhan, a community-based learning platform