Pakistan climate change news
PM Shehbaz Urges Climate Action During Visit to Rain-Hit Gilgit Baltistan
Gilgit Baltistan, August 4, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday visited flood-affected areas in Gilgit Baltistan, emphasizing the urgent need for climate resilience as the region grapples with the aftermath of intense monsoon rains and deadly flash floods.
During his visit, the prime minister met with Governor Mehdi Shah and chaired a high-level briefing to assess the extent of destruction caused by recent cloudburst-triggered floods in Diamir and surrounding areas. PM Shehbaz expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread damage to infrastructure.
"Every year, Pakistan suffers from climate-related disasters despite contributing almost nothing to global carbon emissions," said the prime minister. He called for immediate action and underscored the importance of building climate-resilient infrastructure across the country.
The PM recalled the catastrophic floods of 2022 and noted that Pakistan remains among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change. He also directed the Ministry of Climate Change to take concrete steps in preparing for future challenges, highlighting the need for active engagement in international climate forums to secure funding and support.
Federal and Local Coordination
Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that federal institutions are coordinating closely with the GB government to facilitate ongoing rescue and relief efforts. He instructed relevant authorities to accelerate rehabilitation work, particularly in restoring key roads, bridges, and utilities disrupted by landslides and flash floods.
Earlier in the day, the PM arrived in GB accompanied by several federal ministers, including those for communications, information, climate change, and GB affairs. He also met with Chief Minister Gulbar Khan to review the law and order situation and development progress in the region. As part of efforts to enhance educational access, the PM announced the establishment of Daanish Schools in GB.
Flood Devastation and Rescue Operations
The visit comes after a series of devastating weather events, including a flash flood in Babusar Valley that swept away tourists and vehicles, leaving at least six people dead and others missing. In Chilas, Skardu, and nearby regions, over 200 tourists were stranded as landslides blocked key routes, including the Karakoram Highway.
Joint rescue operations carried out by the Pakistan Army and civil authorities successfully evacuated many individuals. However, a 14-day search in the flood-hit zones concluded without locating the remaining missing persons. GB government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq said hopes of finding survivors have now diminished.
Weather Outlook: More Rains Ahead
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh alert warning of heavy rainfall and potential cloudbursts in GB and Azad Jammu and Kashmir through August 7. July 2025 alone saw 23% above-normal rainfall nationwide, with temperatures slightly higher than average.
According to PMD data, GB recorded a 52% increase in rainfall compared to its seasonal norm, contributing to the intense flooding and ground instability. Punjab also experienced significant precipitation, ranking it among the wettest Julys on record.
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