A multi-dimensional strategy is needed to save Pakistan from the threats of future climate catastrophes. Pakistan has already suffered losses worth USD15 billion in the recent floods. It is, therefore, indispensable for Pakistan to devise a multi-pronged strategy to avert the risk of climate-induced devastation in the future. Additional Secretary General of the Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) Dr Urwa Elahi has said that in light of the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) report of the 2022 floods, Pakistan has suffered losses worth USD14.9 billion, and economic damages worth USD15.2 billion, which makes the total loss at upwards of USD30 billion.

She said that according to a World Bank report titled “Country, Climate and Development,” Pakistan needs USD16.3 billion for reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts, adding that more will be needed for much-needed investment in projects related to adaptation of climate change and building resilience. She said the poverty rate of the country has increased from 3.7% to 4%, pushing more than 8.4 to 9.1 million people into extreme poverty.

She said that 30 million people have been directly affected by the floods, adding that 10 feet of highwaters have drowned houses, people and livestock. She continued, “floodwaters came with such force that nothing could stand in their way. Walls, bridges, homes, hotels and crops were all washed away. Floodwaters brought along heavy stones, wood and metals, which destroyed a lot of standing infrastructure.”

Dr Urwa said that the number of affectees of the floods is constantly rising because of a lack of provision of relief goods. She said it is highly important that tents and food items reach the people in time so as to save them from the worst ravages of winter. She continued, “2022 floods were caused by the warming of the Arabian sea coupled with the warping effects of La Nina. Glacial melt also made its contribution.

Now we have to worry about drought since floodwaters flow into the sea instead of seeping into the ground. The challenges are not over.” “These floods have affected the crucial sectors of food, agriculture, health and infrastructure. The Human Security Index has hit its lowest necessitating an immediate response from the government. Economic situation of the country is hanging from a cliff,” she added.

Dr Urwa highlighted the findings of NASA and said, “according to NASA, around two million acres of cropland and orchards have been lost and 45% of the farmland is under water. This shows that there might be a shortage of food in the country.” “Farmers have been pushed back 50 years because of the floods. They do not have adequate health facilities which is a risk to their lives and their children. It is extremely important that the government devises a comprehensive plan to manage these kinds of risks in the future,” she concluded.

 Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk