A RECENT news report in The Guardian highlights a harrowing reality: heat inequality is silently claiming thousands of lives, most of them in poor nations. As global temperatures reach unprecedented highs, the hidden toll of heatwaves, especially on those who are economically vulnerable, demands urgent attention. This issue is particularly alarming in South Asia, where India, Bangladesh and Pakistan are experiencing some of the most extreme heat events recorded. Pakistan finds itself at the epicentre of this crisis. Cities such as Jacobabad have reported some of the highest temperatures globally in recent years, pushing the limits of human survival. In 2021, Jacobabad recorded a staggering 52°C, making it one of the hottest places on the planet. For many in our country, particularly those working outdoors, such temperatures are effectively a death sentence. Yet, these deaths often go unrecorded and unnoticed — a tragic reflection of the broader global issue of heat inequality. The lack of data is a significant challenge for Pakistan. Without a clear record of heat-related deaths, the government is hampered in its efforts to protect citizens and its ability to advocate for international climate finance. Accurate data is crucial, not just for understanding the scope of the crisis, but also for strengthening Pakistan’s case for funds to mitigate the impact of climate change. These funds could be used to improve infrastructure, create early warning systems and implement cooling measures in the most affected areas.

The government should prioritise the recording and reporting of heat-related deaths. This is not only a matter of justice for those who have died but also a critical step in understanding the full impact of extreme heat. Secondly, it needs to enforce measures to protect those most vulnerable to heat stress, such as construction workers. Examples from other countries, for instance, Armenia’s mandatory breaks in high temperatures or Qatar’s ban on outdoor work during peak heat hours, provide models that could be adapted to our context. As global temperatures continue to rise, the consequences will only become more severe. The government must take bold steps to protect citizens and ensure that the country is adequately prepared to face the challenges of a rapidly warming world. Failure to do so will not only exacerbate the suffering of the vulnerable but also diminish Pakistan’s ability to secure the international support it desperately needs.

Published in Dawn, August 18th, 2024