Lead Climate Correspondent
Lead Climate Correspondent
Researchers warn that dense construction, disappearing vegetation and heat-retaining surfaces are making Pakistan’s cities significantly hotter than surrounding areas, placing outdoor workers and vulnerable communities at growing health risk.
Pakistan’s weather authorities have warned of an increased risk of glacial lake outburst floods, flash flooding and landslides in northern regions as unusually high temperatures accelerate snow and glacier melt.
A new digital platform called Climate Sangat has been launched in Islamabad to improve access to reliable climate information, reporting tools, community initiatives and educational resources in Pakistan.
Punjab plans to expand its “Liquid Tree” initiative, using microalgae-based urban systems to absorb carbon dioxide and support cleaner air in densely built areas where conventional tree planting is difficult.
Punjab has launched a digital wildlife database designed to improve species monitoring, conservation planning and regulatory oversight, as habitat loss and environmental pressure threaten biodiversity across the province.
Lawmakers and climate experts have raised concerns over reductions in Pakistan’s climate-related budget, warning that weaker investment in adaptation could leave communities more exposed to floods, heatwaves, water scarcity and other worsening environmental threats.
Pakistan says nearly 2.3 billion plants have been planted, regenerated or distributed under the Green Pakistan Programme, but low forest cover and continued deforestation show that long-term protection remains critical.
Eight hydrological stations in Pakistan have received international recognition for maintaining water records spanning at least a century, preserving vital evidence for flood forecasting, water planning and climate research.
Experts and government representatives have called for stronger coordination, science-based planning and environmental safeguards to address Karachi’s interconnected water challenges, including groundwater depletion, pollution and urban flooding.
