CLIMATE change is a well-established fact with clear global effects on water, agriculture, health, biodiversity, forests and socioeconomic sectors. People with marginal incomes are particularly affected by the increasing number of climate-related disasters occurring around the world, which is primarily attributed to anthropogenic activity. Pakistan has often been listed among the top 10 nations most susceptible to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels.

The 348km long Sindh coastline may actually be split into two regions: the Karachi region, which is home to Karachi Port and Bin Qasim Port, and the larger Indus Delta region.

Due to upstream water management initiatives, which have impacted water and sediment movement across the delta and caused river floods, erosion, saltwater intrusion and ecological degradation, the Indus Delta continues to face difficulties.

The Framework for Implementation of Climate Change Policy (2014-30) and the National Climate Change Policy of Pakistan contain essential strategies to guard coastal regions against rising sea levels and intensifying natural disasters. These include creating barriers close to infrastructure on low-lying ground, planting mangroves as a natural defence against erosion and storms, and main- taining ideal river flow to provide ecosystems with sediment and nutrients while preventing saltwater intrusion.

Additionally, non-governmental orga- nisations (NGOs) active in the domain of environment can play a critical role in filling the gaps by undertaking research to aid policy formation, improving insti- tutional capacity, and facilitating independent conversations with civil society to assist people in living more sustainable lifestyles.

The problems faced by coastal commu- nities in Pakistan are complex and interconnected, requiring multi-faceted and sustainable solutions.

The international community can work with Pakistani organisations and support them through various means, including financial support, capacity-building, technical help, research cooperation and large-scale data exchange.

A continuous and urgent action is needed to address climate change impacts, promote sustainable fishing practices, tackle pollution, and improve access to basic services.

All initiatives that focus on building resilience, enhancing education and promoting eco-friendly economic activities are bound to play play a pivotal role in safeguarding the cultural and ecological heritage of Pakistan’s coastal communities. This is a critical issue that deserves the attention of all stakeholders.

Fazal ur Rehman Qazi
Karachi

Published in Dawn, January 4th, 2024