Karachi Climate Festival: Urgent Call for Action to Combat Climate Change Now!

The Arts Council of Pakistan held the fourth Karachi Climate Festival to mark World Environment Day. This event raised awareness about climate change’s impact on the city.

During the festival, experts shared alarming insights based on the Climate Risk Index 2025, which places Pakistan among the world’s most vulnerable countries. Discussions included issues like water distribution, the connection between climate change and health, and the media’s role in raising awareness in Karachi.

Urban planner Muhammad Toheed pointed out that Karachi is dealing with two major problems: rising temperatures and urban flooding. According to research from the Karachi Urban Lab, daytime temperatures have increased by 1.6 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures have risen by 2.4 degrees over the past 60 years.

In terms of health, public health expert Mahapara Khan addressed the surge in waterborne diseases and respiratory issues linked to climate change. “As temperatures rise, we see more cases of dengue fever and other illnesses,” she explained. This connection is crucial, as higher temperatures have been shown to aid the spread of diseases.

Afia Salam, the moderator and a well-known environmental expert, emphasized the unofficial way heatstroke-related deaths are reported in hospitals. She mentioned that officials often misclassify these cases to protect their public image.

Journalist Munazza Siddiqui raised concern about the limited coverage of climate issues in the media, arguing that public indifference contributes to this lack of attention. “When reporters seek data on heat-related illnesses, they often encounter resistance from hospital staff,” she said.

Yasir Hussain, an environmental expert, stressed the need for better climate data and public education. He urged the government to back community-led climate adaptation projects throughout Pakistan, highlighting a grassroots approach as essential for effective change.

The plight of coastal communities was also discussed by Saeed Baloch, from the Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum. He condemned the dumping of untreated industrial wastewater into the Arabian Sea, which threatens not only marine life but also the livelihoods of local fishermen.

Recent statistics show that waterborne diseases are on the rise across Pakistan; the World Health Organization reported a significant increase in such illnesses in recent years. This underscores the urgency of addressing these climate impacts now.

In summary, the festival served as a crucial platform for discussing the multiple facets of climate change, fostering a conversation that connects environmental issues with public health, media responsibility, and community resilience.

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