Pakistan's Climate Crisis: Urgent Calls for Action

Amid a severe heatwave in Karachi, businesses in Pakistan are feeling the impact of climate change, particularly within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Phase-II. The scorching temperatures have led to power cuts, affecting establishments like Muhammad Ilyas's restaurant in Lahore, where refrigerators cannot operate, resulting in a loss of customers.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has recorded unprecedented temperatures in Mohenjo Daro, soaring to 52.2 degrees Celsius. This heatwave has exacerbated existing environmental issues such as glacier melt and flash floods in northern Pakistan.

Experts, including Shoaib Kiani from the University of Karachi, are stressing the urgent need for comprehensive climate action plans. Kiani has highlighted the potential of the CPEC Green Corridor to shift investments towards renewable energy sources. He also emphasizes the importance of having skilled professionals in environmental protection and climate change mitigation.

Rubina Khursheed Alam, the prime minister’s climate coordinator, has drawn attention to Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change, ranking among the top five most at-risk countries. Power shortages, exacerbated by the heatwave, are significantly impacting daily life. The recent launch of CPEC’s second phase during the Prime Minister's visit to China signals a commitment to sustainable development and environmental restoration.

The urgent need for climate cooperation within the CPEC Phase-II is evident in the face of the ongoing heatwave and its repercussions on businesses and the environment. As Pakistan grapples with the challenges of climate change, initiatives like the CPEC Green Corridor offer hope for a sustainable future. It is crucial for the government to prioritize environmental protection and invest in renewable energy to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a better tomorrow for all.