CLIMATE VULNERABILITY IN BALOCHISTAN: CHALLENGES, SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACTS, AND THE NEED FOR GOVERNANCELED ADAPTATION

Abstract

Pakistan’s contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions is among the lowest in the world, with the province of Balochistan contributing almost none. However, Pakistan, particularly Balochistan, is one of the most vulnerable regions to the impacts of climate
change. Studies indicate a clear trend of climate change affecting nearly every part of the province, including increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events such as floods, cyclones, and unprecedented monsoon rains. These events lead to regular siltation
of small dams, subsequent overflows, and prolonged droughts. Additionally, snowfall has decreased significantly compared to previous years, and the groundwater table continues to decline, exacerbating the already critical water scarcity in the region. Balochistan lacks the necessary infrastructure for water storage and faces numerous socioeconomic challenges, including widespread poverty, inadequate access to education, limited healthcare, and insufficient disaster management systems. These issues, combined with a heavy reliance on natural resources, limited technological capacity, and inadequate financial resources, make the province particularly vulnerable to climate extremes and deepen poverty levels.Addressing these challenges requires urgent prioritization of
adaptation and mitigation measures, particularly nature-based solutions tailored to provincial and local contexts. However, poor governance remains a significant barrier. Sustainable solutions demand competent and practical governmental decision-making to
effectively implement climate action plans.