Pakistan is reeling under the impact of climate change, as heavy rains and storms continue to devastate communities across the country. The disaster has caused loss of lives, widespread property damage, and left cities and villages struggling to cope.
In Karachi, relentless rains paralyzed the country’s largest port city. Nearly 10 percent of the national population lives in Karachi. The rains crippled daily life, disrupted key services, and left major parts of the city underwater.
Floodwaters damaged water supply and drainage systems, while prolonged negligence fueled by ethnic and political divides worsened the city’s vulnerability. Early assessments suggest it could take several days to restore critical services.
Officials confirmed widespread destruction of electricity lines, gas pipelines, and water systems. Hundreds of vehicles, including buses, cars, rickshaws, and motorcycles, were left submerged and severely damaged.
In northern Pakistan, heavy rains destroyed homes, shops, and commercial properties. Authorities in Peshawar reported damage to schools and healthcare facilities. Students returning from summer holidays now face delays as classrooms remain unusable.
While officials continue to assess losses, the final toll remains unclear. Pakistan’s Meteorological Department warned of more heavy rains in the coming days, which could strike areas not yet affected.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) raised alarms in a statement issued from Islamabad. It warned that many affected communities are in remote regions, making emergency relief operations extremely difficult.
UNOCHA estimated that over 600 houses have been destroyed and more than 1,000 people displaced. Officials stressed that actual figures could rise as rescuers struggle to reach remote areas in the north.
The unfolding crisis underscores the escalating threat of climate change in Pakistan, leaving millions vulnerable to storms, floods, and extreme weather events.
