As Pakistan grapples with recurrent floods intensified by climate change, the realities faced by its vulnerable communities are stark and tragic. Families are torn apart, homes are washed away, and livelihoods are obliterated as monsoon seasons bring devastation year after year.
Rescuers often scramble to locate loved ones amidst the chaos, as seen in the case of one-year-old Zara, whose family was swept away by flash floods in northern Punjab. In late June, the monsoon season began, claiming over 1,000 lives and affecting an estimated 6.9 million people, all while Pakistan contributes a mere 1% to global greenhouse gas emissions.
From the northern mountains to the southern plains, climate change creates distinct challenges in every region, with the poorest suffering most severely. The antiquated infrastructure and lack of early warning systems leave many at the mercy of sudden natural disasters, such as glacial lake outbursts in the Himalayas.
An emerging concern is illegal construction near rivers, exacerbated by local corruption and ineffective enforcement of laws intended to protect vulnerable areas. This exacerbates the situation, as millions continue to build their homes on floodplains despite repeated disasters.
In Lahore, the disparity is visible: wealthier enclaves struggle with flooding while poorer neighbourhoods, like Theme Park, have residents returning to risk their lives for salvaged belongings. As families like Sumera's endure dire conditions—left homeless weeks from childbirth—the toll of misgovernance, lack of resources, and growing climate threats becomes painfully evident.
Innovative solutions are being proposed by individuals like architect Yasmeen Lari, who advocates for climate-resilient homes made from natural materials. Yet, with climate challenges projected to worsen, many feel trapped, resigned to facing yet another season of flooding.
The stories from Pakistan resonate with calls for immediate action against climate change and inspire conversations about sustainable practices that might prevent similar crises globally. As one villager expressed, I have nowhere else to go, encapsulating the desperate reality for many vulnerable communities.
