IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND FLOOD DISASTERS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Ecosystems and human life depends on availability of water. Pakistan holds its 4th position for consuming of freshwater in the world. Pakistan is considered a water-stressed country and is rapidly approaching water scarcity. Pakistan may face climate change challenges in terms of related to water. The quality of drinking water is likewise degrading rapidly. Since independence in 1947, Pakistan has witnessed 29 floods up to 2023, including the first ever flood in 1950 and almost every second year in 1950, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1959, 1973, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1981, 1983, 1984, 1988, 1992, 1994, 1995, and 2010 up to 2023. There is still no exact data available on the loss to the economy. In 2022, the country is witnessing more than $15 billion in losses. In 2010 calamity, around 1,600 peoples were killed and 38,600 km2 inundated, almost $10 billion (855 billion PKR) was damaged and 578 billion needed for the reconstruction of flood damages. Efficient climate change policy can support the management of water resources as well as boost economic growth, boost agricultural output, and meet food demand. Climate change's effects on expanding cities, rising wages, and growing populations will combine to create a world where water demand will rise exponentially while availability will become more limited and unpredictable.