Pakistan Faces Alarming Water Stress, NDMA Warns of Monsoon Flood Threat
Pakistan is among the top 15 most water-stressed countries, warns NDMA. Climate change, glacial melt, and above-normal monsoon rainfall pose serious threats. Learn about the latest disaster preparedness efforts.
Pakistan water stress has reached a critical level. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned that by 2025, Pakistan is expected to be among the top 15 most water-stressed countries globally. This dire prediction is not just a future concern—it is a fast-approaching reality.
According to NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, climate change has accelerated water scarcity, especially in agriculture-dependent provinces. Glacial melt, erratic rainfall, and unchecked urbanization have all contributed to the country’s shrinking water resources. If immediate, integrated action is not taken, millions could face water insecurity in the coming years.
NDMA Briefs Parliament on Climate and Monsoon Threats
On Thursday, members of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Climate Change visited NDMA headquarters. The committee received a comprehensive briefing on the country’s climate vulnerabilities, including glacial melt and the risk of severe monsoon flooding.
Chairman Malik highlighted that above-normal rainfall is forecasted for the upcoming monsoon season, especially in Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan. These regions are already vulnerable due to poor drainage and fragile infrastructure.
The committee was informed that the NDMA is sharing detailed forecasts and hazard maps with provincial authorities to boost preparedness. However, the risk of urban flooding and flash floods remains high, especially in encroached areas where drainage systems are blocked or degraded.
Glacial Melt and Flood Risks on the Rise
One of the most serious consequences of Pakistan water stress is the rapid melting of glaciers. NDMA warned that this year’s above-normal temperatures have intensified glacial melt in the northern regions of Pakistan, increasing the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
NDMA is using the Global Glacier Monitoring Portal, a high-tech tool that tracks changes in glacier size, snow cover, and potential lake formation. This real-time data allows NDMA to issue timely alerts to vulnerable communities and downstream districts.
According to a recent UNDP report, Pakistan hosts over 7,000 glaciers—the highest number outside the polar regions. Without robust monitoring and localized adaptation measures, the country could face catastrophic flooding and long-term freshwater shortages.
Advanced Monitoring Systems and Early Warning Protocols
NDMA has significantly upgraded its disaster response and monitoring infrastructure. The authority is now equipped with a state-of-the-art control room, surveillance drones, and a network of automatic weather stations.
Chairman Malik emphasized that early warnings are being issued up to six months in advance, particularly in high-risk flood zones. These warnings are disseminated through SMS, television, radio, and district administration channels.
NDMA also conducts multi-agency emergency drills and coordinates closely with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and provincial disaster management authorities (PDMAs). These simulations are crucial for evaluating real-time responsiveness and public awareness.
Challenges in Local Disaster Response
Despite national-level preparedness, on-ground implementation remains a weak link. Committee member Shagufta Jumani raised concerns about the protection of vulnerable populations, especially during heavy rainfall events.
NDMA clarified that post-18th Amendment, disaster management is a provincial subject. While NDMA provides the technical data and guidance, timely and effective action must be taken by local authorities. Unfortunately, issues like urban encroachments, outdated sewage systems, and insufficient funding at the local level delay response efforts.
For example, the Karachi urban floods of recent years were aggravated by illegal constructions on natural waterways. Despite early warnings, poor enforcement and uncoordinated evacuations led to widespread damage.
NDMA’s Future Preparedness Strategy
To reduce Pakistan’s water stress and increase climate resilience, NDMA plans to:
- Expand glacier monitoring to additional sites in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.
- Strengthen collaboration with international partners like UNDP and ICIMOD.
- Support the development of community-based disaster response teams.
- Launch nationwide awareness campaigns on water conservation and climate adaptation.
- Recommend legal reforms to address urban encroachments and enforce floodplain zoning.
NDMA is also pushing for integration of climate risk maps into national development plans. This will allow provincial governments to better allocate budgets for climate infrastructure and ensure that vulnerable populations are protected.
Conclusion: A Call for Unified Climate Resilience
Pakistan’s placement among the top 15 water-stressed countries is a wake-up call that demands immediate, unified action. While NDMA has made significant strides in monitoring, forecasting, and coordination, the battle against climate threats cannot be won without strong provincial and local implementation.
To truly reduce Pakistan water stress, there must be a national movement for climate resilience, public awareness, and political will. Only then can the country hope to mitigate the growing risks of floods, droughts, and water insecurity.
Related Internal Links:
- Karachi’s Water Crisis and Infrastructure Breakdown
- How Glacial Melt Impacts Northern Pakistan
- Climate Policy in Pakistan: Challenges and Progress