Islamabad :In a stark climate warning, Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has revealed that the country is on track to becoming one of the 15 most water-stressed nations in the world by 2025, amid growing environmental vulnerabilities and erratic weather patterns.
The revelation came during a comprehensive briefing delivered by NDMA Chairman Lt. Gen. Inam Haider Malik to members of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Climate Change, who visited the authority’s headquarters for a detailed overview of national preparedness and environmental risks.
Surging Risks from Above and Below
Chairman Malik highlighted that above-average monsoon rains are forecast this year, particularly in southern regions including Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan — areas that have already faced critical flooding in previous years.
He warned that Pakistan is not only grappling with changing rainfall patterns, but also with the accelerated melting of glaciers in the north. Using data from the Global Glacier Monitoring System, the NDMA is tracking rapid changes in glacial behavior that could increase the likelihood of flash floods and GLOFs (Glacial Lake Outburst Floods).
“Climate change is not a future threat — it’s a present reality for Pakistan,” said the NDMA Chief. “Water scarcity, intense monsoons, and glacier instability are converging into a multi-dimensional crisis.”
Preparedness vs. Provincial Gaps
Responding to questions from lawmakers about public safety and early interventions, the Chairman emphasized that while the NDMA maintains a modern command system, drone surveillance, and early warning protocols, disaster response now rests largely with provincial authorities under the 18th Constitutional Amendment.
He further stated that early alerts are shared with relevant departments months in advance, yet challenges such as unregulated urban development, poor drainage infrastructure, and slow response coordination continue to limit the impact of preparedness efforts.
“Warnings only work if they’re followed by timely action. We’ve equipped provinces with the tools—they must act decisively,” he added.
What’s Being Done
94 critical infrastructure points have been mapped for potential flood vulnerability.
A round-the-clock operations center is monitoring incoming monsoon data.
Joint drills with provincial authorities are being conducted to test emergency readiness.
Public awareness guidelines are being developed in coordination with local governments.
Bottom Line:
As the monsoon approaches, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture. Without integrated national and provincial cooperation, the looming water scarcity and climate disasters may outpace current mitigation strategies — and place millions at risk.
