Since its establishment in 1947, Pakistan has undergone significant environmental changes, many of which are tied directly to the global phenomenon of climate change. Over the past 77 years, the country’s climate has evolved, with rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events. These changes have had profound impacts on Pakistan’s forests, water resources, agriculture, and overall biodiversity.
Pakistan: A 77-Year Overview
Temperature Rise:
Since 1947, Pakistan has experienced a significant increase in average temperatures. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the country’s average annual temperature has risen by approximately 0.6°C, which is consistent with the global trend of warming due to greenhouse gas emissions. This increase has been more pronounced in the northern regions, where glaciers are melting at alarming rates, leading to concerns over future water shortages.
Rainfall Patterns:
Rainfall patterns in Pakistan have become increasingly erratic over the decades. The monsoon season, which is crucial for agriculture, has seen shifts in timing and intensity. While some regions have experienced decreased rainfall, others have seen a rise in extreme precipitation events, leading to devastating floods. For instance, the catastrophic floods of 2010, which affected over 20 million people, were a stark reminder of how climate change can amplify natural disasters.
Glacial Retreat:
Pakistan’s northern areas are home to some of the world’s largest glaciers, including those in the Karakoram Range. Over the past 77 years, these glaciers have been retreating at an accelerated pace. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) reports that the region’s glaciers have lost about 1% of their mass per year over the last three decades. This melting contributes to both seasonal water flow in rivers and the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
The State of Forests: Then and Now
Forests in 1947:
At the time of its establishment, Pakistan had a relatively healthy forest cover, particularly in the northern regions and along the western frontier. The country’s forest cover was estimated to be around 5-6% of the total land area, with rich biodiversity in areas such as the Himalayan foothills, the forests of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the mangroves along the Arabian Sea coast.
Current Forest Situation:
Today, Pakistan’s forest cover has declined to approximately 2-3% of the total land area, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Deforestation has been driven by multiple factors, including population growth, agricultural expansion, urbanization, and illegal logging. The loss of forests has exacerbated soil erosion, reduced biodiversity, and contributed to the increased frequency of landslides and floods. The mangrove forests, which once thrived along the coast, have also been severely depleted due to industrialization and changes in riverine flows.
Reforestation Efforts:
Despite the grim situation, there have been efforts to reverse deforestation. The “Billion Tree Tsunami” initiative in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the “Ten Billion Tree Tsunami” project launched nationwide are ambitious reforestation efforts aimed at restoring degraded landscapes. These initiatives have been successful in increasing tree cover in certain regions, but much work remains to be done to achieve sustainable forest management across the country.
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Current Climate Challenges in Pakistan
Water Scarcity:
One of the most pressing climate challenges Pakistan faces today is water scarcity. With its rivers fed by increasingly erratic glacial melt and monsoon rains, Pakistan’s water resources are under severe stress. The Indus River, which is the lifeline of Pakistan’s agriculture, is facing reduced flows, threatening the livelihoods of millions of farmers.
Agricultural Vulnerability:
Pakistan’s agriculture, which contributes about 24% to the GDP and employs around 42% of the labor force, is highly vulnerable to climate change. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns are already affecting crop yields. The increased frequency of droughts and floods has led to significant crop losses, food insecurity, and economic instability in rural areas.
Heatwaves:
Pakistan has become increasingly prone to extreme heatwaves. Cities like Karachi and Lahore have experienced record-breaking temperatures, leading to hundreds of deaths. The intensity and frequency of these heatwaves are expected to increase as global temperatures continue to rise.
Air Pollution:
Climate change has also exacerbated air pollution in Pakistan. Rapid urbanization, coupled with industrial emissions and vehicular pollution, has led to deteriorating air quality in major cities. The smog that blankets cities like Lahore during the winter months is a visible manifestation of the country’s environmental challenges.
Solutions to Address Climate Change in Pakistan
Improving Water Management:
To combat water scarcity, Pakistan needs to invest in modernizing its irrigation infrastructure and promoting water conservation practices. Building new dams, improving water storage, and adopting efficient irrigation techniques like drip irrigation can help mitigate the impacts of erratic water supply. Additionally, transboundary water management with neighboring countries, particularly India, is crucial to ensuring equitable water distribution.
Sustainable Agriculture:
Promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices is essential for safeguarding Pakistan’s food security. This includes adopting drought-resistant crop varieties, improving soil health through organic farming, and integrating agroforestry practices. Educating farmers about the impacts of climate change and training them in sustainable farming techniques will be key to building resilience in the agricultural sector.
Reforestation and Afforestation:
Expanding reforestation and afforestation efforts is critical for restoring Pakistan’s forests and improving biodiversity. The success of initiatives like the “Ten Billion Tree Tsunami” needs to be scaled up, with a focus on protecting existing forests, planting indigenous species, and involving local communities in forest management.
Renewable Energy Transition:
Pakistan must accelerate its transition to renewable energy sources to reduce its carbon footprint. Investing in solar, wind, and hydropower can help the country meet its growing energy needs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The government should also provide incentives for private sector investment in renewable energy projects and promote energy efficiency measures across industries.
Climate Policy and Governance:
Strengthening climate policy and governance is crucial for addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. This includes implementing the National Climate Change Policy, enhancing coordination between federal and provincial governments, and integrating climate considerations into development planning. Additionally, Pakistan should actively participate in international climate negotiations and seek support from global partners for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Extreme weather events
Over the past 77 years, Pakistan has experienced significant climate change, with profound impacts on its environment, economy, and society. The decline in forest cover, the increased frequency of extreme weather events, and the looming threat of water scarcity are all indicators of the urgent need for action. While efforts are being made to address these challenges, much more needs to be done to build resilience and ensure a sustainable future for the country. By adopting comprehensive climate strategies, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing international cooperation, Pakistan can mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect its natural resources for future generations.
References
- Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). (2024). Climate Change in Pakistan: A 77-Year Overview.
- International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). (2023). Glacial Retreat in the Karakoram Range.
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). (2024). Pakistan’s Forest Cover: Then and Now.
- Government of Pakistan. (2024). National Climate Change Policy.
Credit: Mr. Waseem Shahzad Qadri also Contribute this article
