Climate Change Perspective in Pakistan

Abstract

The study aims to assess historical climate variations and forecast future changes within various agro-climatic regions of Pakistan over the next half-century, employing both Regional and Global Climate Models. The primary objective is to evaluate the vulnerabilities specific to different regions and propose suitable coping mechanisms and adaptation strategies. An examination of historical climate data underscores the undeniable reality that climate change is an ongoing process in Pakistan. The rate and nature of these changes are expected to fluctuate across time and geographical regions, exerting profound effects on various aspects of society. In parallel with endeavors to curtail greenhouse gas emissions, preparing for and adapting to the consequences of a shifting climate is imperative. Comprehending the implications of climate change for Pakistan constitutes a vital initial step in this endeavor. Should future climate changes materialize to the extent projected by the majority of global climate models, it is anticipated that Pakistan's water resources will undergo substantial alterations. This, in turn, will have ripple effects on food production, public health, industrial processes, transportation systems, and the long-term sustainability of ecosystems. Particularly, regions in the southern part of the country, already grappling with resource stress, are poised to face exacerbated challenges due to supply or demand shifts driven by climate change. Historical records and projections from General Circulation Models and Regional Climate Models converge on the prediction that extreme climatic events, such as droughts and floods, will intensify in frequency and magnitude across different parts of Pakistan. These extreme events are expected to exert substantial pressure on existing infrastructure and institutional capacities, potentially precipitating significant economic, social, and environmental repercussions. Consequently, it is imperative to place specific emphasis on understanding, mitigating, and adapting to these extreme climatic events.