Climate Action in Pakistan: A Call for Urgent Change
As Climate Week Karachi 2026 wrapped up on February 4, a clear message emerged from experts: Pakistan must radically change its approach to climate change. The time for talk is over. Action is now essential.
Climate change impacts are palpable in Pakistan, with melting glaciers, heatwaves, erratic rainfall, and devastating floods becoming part of daily life. According to the United Nations Development Programme, nearly 10,000 glaciers have started to recede, which may lead to future water shortages. The unpredictable nature of rainfall has increased the risk of floods and droughts. The 2025 monsoon season, for instance, displaced around 3.5 million people, leaving many at risk, especially in Sindh.
In 2025, Sindh faced an estimated loss of Rs32.2 billion due to climate-related issues such as urban flooding and agricultural damage. This data highlights that Pakistan requires urgent strategies to adapt and build resilience against these changes.
During Climate Week Karachi 2026, the importance of resilience was a central theme. Resilience is not just an environmental need; it’s also a socioeconomic imperative. Communities that lack early-warning systems and resilient infrastructure often suffer the most during climate events.
Efforts in Climate Finance
Over the past few years, Pakistan has made strides in climate finance to enhance its adaptive capacity. In 2024, it introduced the National Climate Finance Strategy aimed at mobilizing funds for climate adaptation. The following year, Pakistan issued its first sovereign Green Sukuk, which raised substantial capital for climate-friendly investments. Additionally, the country secured over $1.5 billion in international climate finance.
Recent statistics from the International Monetary Fund indicate the pressing need for targeted action. While Pakistan has secured significant funding, making this finance effective at local levels remains a challenge.
The Gaps That Remain
Despite these initiatives, gaps persist in translating available resources into effective local measures. In a 2018 study by the World Bank, Sindh was labeled the most vulnerable region to climate change. The economic implications are severe; without action, the UNDP estimates that unchecked climate change could cost Sindh about 20% of its GDP, while proactive measures would only require 2.5% of the GDP.
A significant structural issue is the centralized nature of climate finance in Pakistan. Much of the funding flows through federal agencies, even though local governments manage crucial areas like water management and agriculture. This disconnect hampers local responses to climate risks.
For example, projects like the Sindh Coastal Resilience Project highlight these challenges. Although designed for Sindh, the financing agreements were routed through the federal ministry, delaying implementation and support for local communities.
Implementation Challenges
Notably, Pakistan is struggling with its ability to absorb and utilize climate funds. Reports show chronic underspending and significant delays in project implementation. For instance, the Greater Karachi Bulk Water Scheme, aimed at supplying water, has faced continuous setbacks, impacting its completion timeline and driving up costs.
An independent analysis also pointed out that, over a 15-year period, less than half of Sindh’s allocated climate funds were spent, underscoring the need for more effective management and execution.
Towards a Resilient Future
The road ahead is clear: Pakistan needs to decentralize access to climate finance. Local governments should be empowered with direct access to funds and streamlined procedures for project implementation. Building technical capacity at the local level will be vital for effective planning and response.
Moreover, integrating climate priorities into local development plans can ensure resilience is prioritized in decision-making. Political will, institutional reform, and localized governance are crucial. Without these changes, climate action will remain just words on paper, failing the very communities it aims to protect.
By focusing on these measures, Pakistan can transform its approach from merely recognizing climate risks to actively combating them, paving the way for a sustainable future.
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