Islamabad, Pakistan – A troubling new wave of cloudbursts, heavy monsoon rains, and subsequent flooding has recently wreaked havoc across Pakistan, particularly affecting residents in the southern coastal city of Karachi. Among those impacted is Iqbal Solangi, who grapples with the profound loss experienced by countless individuals whose lives have been altered by this ongoing crisis.
Since late June, an unprecedented monsoon season, characterized by excessive rainfall and subsequent floods, has claimed the lives of over 800 individuals, resulted in the destruction of at least 7,225 homes, and led to the loss of more than 5,500 livestock. This phenomenon has also devastated agricultural lands, exacerbating an already serious situation.
While the precise motivations behind the floods require further investigation, many experts attribute the intensity of these weather events to a complex interplay of factors, including climate change. Pakistan stands out as one of the most climate-vulnerable nations globally, despite contributing less than 1 percent to global carbon emissions. This irony underscores the urgent need for global attention and action regarding climate justice.
Solangi, who was forced to leave his previous farming life behind due to climate-related challenges, has faced severe setbacks yet again as recent floods have obliterated his rice crops for the third time since catastrophic flooding events in 2010 and 2012. Having initially relocated from a small village on the border of Sindh and Balochistan, Solangi’s struggle highlights the plight of many farmers facing daunting economic challenges in the wake of environmental disasters.
The Climate Rate Index report for 2025 ranks Pakistan as the most affected country in terms of climate-related disasters, based on data from 2022. In that year alone, overwhelming flooding submerged approximately one-third of the nation, ultimately claiming over 1,700 lives and causing immense economic damage estimated at .8 billion, with an additional .2 billion in related economic losses. These events have unfortunately pushed millions deeper into poverty, emphasizing the need for economic and environmental resilience strategies.
The changing climate has not only altered the agricultural landscape but also reflects broader concerns within rural communities. Agriculture accounts for roughly 24 percent of Pakistan’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employs over 37 percent of the work force, supporting the livelihoods of around 40 million individuals. Unfortunately, recent trends indicate a modest growth rate of just 0.6 percent in this vital sector – a significant downturn from the previous year’s growth of 6.4 percent.
The challenges facing farmers such as Muhammad Hashim, residing in Balochistan, illustrate the enormity of the hurdles posed by unpredictable weather. Hashim describes farming under these tumultuous conditions as “gambling with nature,” noting the frequent cycle of floods and droughts that forces him and others to increasingly migrate in search of stability. The toll of this environmental unpredictability drives families to abandon their ancestral lands, illustrating the urgent need for humanitarian support and sustainable development initiatives.
As Pakistan continues to face the dual threats of flooding and drought, the resilience of its people shines through even the cloudiest days, echoing a shared hope for recovery and sustainable practices moving forward. The necessity for international cooperation in addressing climate-related issues remains critical.
Through comprehensive efforts in climate adaptation and resilience building, Pakistan can chart a course toward a more sustainable future, enhancing both its agricultural capacity and community livelihoods.
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