Pakistan 7th Most Affected by Climate Change: Ahsan Warns of Urgent National Unity

Pakistan 7th most affected by climate change — this statement from Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal is not just a warning but a stark reality. Speaking at the annual convocation of the University of Space Technology in Islamabad, he highlighted that Pakistan is among the top 10 most climate-vulnerable nations in the world.

This alarming position demands unity, national resilience, and technological innovation to safeguard the country’s future.

Ahsan Iqbal’s Climate Change Warning

Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that Pakistan 7th most affected by climate change is not just a statistic; it is a lived experience. From floods to heatwaves, the evidence is undeniable. He urged the need for a National Action Plan and collective unity to mitigate these risks.

“We will have to utilize our national resources wisely to confront this existential threat,” he said.

The Minister reminded the audience that without urgent action, Pakistan’s economy, agriculture, health, and national security could face severe disruption.

Pakistan’s Lost Space Leadership and Future Vision

Interestingly, Iqbal connected climate change resilience with space technology. He reminded the nation that Pakistan was among the first Asian countries to establish a space agency in the 1960s.

However, due to political instability and policy discontinuity, Pakistan lost its leadership in the space sciences.

Now, the government has renewed its commitment to reclaim Pakistan’s lost position in space research and exploration.

This vision is not just about prestige; it’s about using satellite technology for real-world climate solutions.

How Space Technology Can Tackle Climate Change

The Minister highlighted that space technology offers transformative solutions to climate threats.

Key Roles of Space Technology in Climate Adaptation:

• Glacier Monitoring: Earth observation satellites can track glacier melt in the Himalayas, which feed Pakistan’s rivers.

• Deforestation Mapping: Satellite imagery provides real-time data to combat illegal logging.

• Disaster Preparedness: Space-based communication networks enable faster early warnings for floods, storms, and earthquakes.

• Agriculture Planning: Satellite data improves irrigation systems, helping farmers adapt to changing rainfall patterns.

According to NASA Earth Science, space-based technologies are critical for monitoring environmental change globally.

Youth Engagement in Science and Innovation

Ahsan Iqbal passionately appealed to the youth of Pakistan. He emphasized that the younger generation must take the lead in science, research, and innovation.

He reminded students that during the Islamic Golden Age, Muslim scholars were pioneers in astronomy and mathematics. Today, that same spirit of inquiry can help Pakistan regain leadership in science and technology.

Youth-driven innovation in climate solutions, green technologies, and space sciences will not only help Pakistan adapt but also open new opportunities in the global economy.

Devastating Floods: A Reminder of Urgency

The urgency of the matter cannot be overstated. In recent years, Pakistan has suffered:

• 2022 Floods: Displaced over 33 million people and caused $30 billion in damages (UN Report).

• Extreme Heatwaves: Claimed hundreds of lives across Punjab and Sindh.

• Water Scarcity: Threatening food security for millions.

These disasters underline why Pakistan 7th most affected by climate change is not just a ranking but a lived humanitarian crisis.

Building a Knowledge Economy for Sustainability

Iqbal stressed that Pakistan must adopt a Knowledge Economy Model. Instead of relying on traditional exports, Pakistan should move towards:

• Value-Added Exports (technology, IT, renewable energy solutions).

• Green Innovation (solar power, sustainable agriculture).

• Research-Driven Policies (climate-smart urban planning).

Such a shift will strengthen resilience against climate threats while boosting economic growth.

Related Internal Link: Pakistan’s Climate Finance Challenges

Conclusion: Path Towards a Climate-Resilient Future

Pakistan’s position as the 7th most affected country by climate change is both a challenge and a call to action.

Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal’s message is clear:

• Embrace modern technologies like space science.

• Empower youth to lead in innovation.

• Foster national unity to safeguard the country’s future.

By merging science, technology, and community resilience, Pakistan can transform its vulnerability into an opportunity — not only to protect its people but also to reclaim its lost leadership in space sciences and the global fight against climate change.