Pakistan Urged to Strengthen Climate Preparedness Amid Rising Weather Risks
The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has called for stronger investment in climate resilience, early-warning systems and disaster preparedness as extreme weather events continue to pose risks to Pakistan.
The OICCI expressed sympathy with the people affected by the recent floods in Nepal, saying the disaster highlights the importance of preparedness in countries that are vulnerable to climate-related emergencies.
The business chamber said Pakistan faces similar challenges, having experienced severe flooding, displacement, infrastructure damage and disruptions to livelihoods in recent years.
OICCI Calls for Better Disaster Planning
OICCI stressed that Pakistan needs to improve its ability to identify and manage climate-related risks before emergencies occur.
The chamber said authorities should focus on preventive measures, stronger emergency planning and systems that can provide communities with timely information about potential hazards.
“Pakistan cannot wait for disasters to happen before preparing for them,” the chamber said, highlighting the importance of early action and long-term planning.
Rising Temperatures Add to Climate Concerns
Pakistan remains exposed to several climate-related threats, including floods, heatwaves, changing rainfall patterns and the effects of glacier melt.
According to figures cited by OICCI, 2025 was Pakistan’s second-warmest year in 65 years, while 2024 was recorded as the country’s warmest year.
These changing weather patterns can affect communities, agriculture, infrastructure and economic activity.
The chamber also referred to comments by Climate Change Minister Musadik Masood Malik, who said earlier this year that climate-related impacts cost Pakistan around 1 percent of GDP each year.
Focus on Early-Warning Systems
OICCI said efforts to improve early-warning systems for glacial lake outburst floods, flash floods, urban flooding and heatwaves are important but require further development.
The organisation recommended a more effective disaster management approach that can identify vulnerable locations, assess potential threats and provide sufficient time for authorities and residents to take preventive action.
More Investment in Climate Resilience
OICCI also called for increased investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, predictive technologies, emergency response systems and community-level preparedness.
According to the chamber, improving climate resilience can help reduce the impact of extreme weather events and protect lives, infrastructure and livelihoods.
The organisation said long-term planning and stronger preparedness will become increasingly important as Pakistan continues to face a range of climate-related challenges.
