The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has called on Pakistan to prioritize comprehensive climate adaptation strategies at both federal and provincial levels to enhance resilience against natural disasters like floods and droughts. This recommendation comes as Pakistan seeks over $1 billion in additional financing for climate resilience under the IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
A four-member IMF technical mission, currently in Islamabad, has emphasized the need for stringent measures, including preventing construction near rivers, nullahs, other waterways, and forests. The mission also advocates for the development of energy-efficient building plans in both urban and rural areas. These adaptation measures should be integral to public investment strategies across all government tiers and state-owned entities, focusing on preparedness rather than reactive disaster management.
In parallel, the Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources has expressed serious concerns about encroachments along rivers and waterways. The committee highlighted that, according to data from Suparco, significant encroachments in Punjab have not been addressed since August 2024, posing increased risks of flooding and associated damages. The committee has directed relevant authorities to remove these encroachments within a month to mitigate potential hazards before the upcoming monsoon season.
These developments underscore the urgency for Pakistan to implement effective climate adaptation and disaster risk management strategies to safeguard lives and property against the escalating impacts of climate change.
