top of page
Search

Recurring Floods in Pakistan: Climate Change and Public Health Impact

Credits: Tooba (Climate Researcher)


INTRODUCTION


Pakistan has long been vulnerable to destructive floods. Over the years, the country has experienced at least 27 floods, including the most recent one in June 2025 in northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.


These floods have taken many lives, displaced thousands, and left countless families homeless.


In addition to human suffering, flooding also damages crops and farmland, resulting in significant economic losses and posing a threat to the lives of millions.

This article explores the flooding in the country caused by climate change and human-made factors, which have devastating effects on public health as well as the country’s agriculture.


BACKGROUND


Pakistan is a country in South Asia with four provinces, all of which have been affected by flooding at some point. Major floods in 1950, 1992, 2010, and 2022 have caused widespread destruction, with the 2010 and 2022 floods being the worst, resulting in over 3,500 deaths combined.


Poor and vulnerable communities are usually the most affected. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) plays a role in flood management by creating policies focused on prevention and emergency response.


International organizations like the UNDP, WHO, and the Red Crescent provide aid and support during these disasters. In many cases, NGOs respond more quickly than the government.


Both climate change and human-driven factors like poor planning and deforestation are responsible for worsening floods in recent years.



CURRENT IMPACTS


Floods in Pakistan have been affecting millions of people every year, especially those who struggle financially. All the floods the country has experienced so far have taken over 14,000 lives, and more than 3.5 million homes have been destroyed.


Major sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, health, education, and even exports and GDP growth have been severely impacted. The total estimated cost of flood-related damage in Pakistan is over $45 billion.


In Sindh, floods have forced families to sleep on roads and rooftops for days. The flood that occurred recently in Swat was particularly heartbreaking. 18 members of the same family died after waiting for over two hours in the middle of a river for rescue teams that never reached them in time.


Many health facilities were destroyed, leaving people without access to basic medical care, making the situation even worse for those who were already suffering.



SYSTEM OF INJUSTICE


The government’s lack of proper planning, weak flood management systems, delays or corruption in distributing aid, and failure to rebuild poor infrastructure have been some of the biggest causes of flood disasters in the country.


Poor communities are often forced to live in areas that are highly prone to flooding, while wealthier people reside in safer neighborhoods with proper drainage systems.

During British colonization, canals and dams were built to serve colonial interests, not the well-being of local people, and these outdated systems still influence how floodwaters spread across the country today.


Due to racism and social inequality, certain groups and minorities have limited access to essential resources and are excluded from decision-making processes that directly affect their lives.


People themselves have also contributed to the crisis through their actions. The rise in deforestation has reduced the soil’s ability to absorb water. In addition, the lack of proper drainage systems, combined with the absence of regulations to prevent construction in flood-prone zones, has only made the problem worse.


 SOLUTIONS/CALL FOR ACTION


The Government of Pakistan, along with international organizations such as the United Nations, has been actively involved in responding to flood disasters. The government provides financial assistance and shelter homes to people who have lost their houses, and it has also announced plans to improve national infrastructure. However, these projects must begin as soon as possible to ensure better drainage systems in all areas of the country, along with the construction of more dams and water storage canals.


To reduce the loss of lives during flood events, the government should implement an effective early warning system. Public awareness programs must be conducted to help people understand how dangerous floods can be and how to prepare for them. In addition, the government should consider banning or regulating practices that contribute to climate change, such as deforestation and pollution. Rescue teams must also be strengthened and trained to respond quickly so that emergencies do not escalate.


Strict rules should be enforced regarding construction in flood-prone areas. People affected by floods must be given timely financial aid and long-term support. In recent years, there have also been valuable efforts by youth and grassroots movements across the country. These young individuals not only raise awareness through social media but also organize donation drives for flood-affected communities. Many of them collaborate with NGOs on climate action projects aimed at slowing down environmental damage and creating a more stable climate.


Additionally, national initiatives such as the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Project and the 4RF framework (Resilient Recovery, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Framework) have helped the country take important steps toward recovery and resilience. 


Organizations like Climate Kills Initiative (CKI) encourage young people to take action against climate change by raising awareness, volunteering, and launching new projects. Anyone who wants to contribute to their planet’s well-being can join such initiatives and be part of the change.


CONCLUSION


Floods in Pakistan have become an almost yearly event. Since its independence, the country has experienced numerous floods, resulting in losses in every way possible.

Poor infrastructure, the government’s lack of effective efforts, climate change, and social injustice have all turned a natural disaster into a national crisis. However, the involvement of youth and support from international organizations have somewhat reduced the impact in recent years.


The public and government must focus on doing far more than what is currently being done. Floods are not just natural disasters; they reveal weak planning, poor leadership, and highlight the unequal treatment certain communities face.

Millions of lives and the country’s economy depend on how well Pakistan handles and responds to this challenge. If no serious action is taken, floods could become a major reason for the country’s long-term downfall.


The government should do everything within its power to reduce the effects of flooding, but citizens also have a role to play. People can support flood victims by donating, volunteering with NGOs, and helping raise awareness. Educating oneself and others about the causes and consequences of floods is essential.


By staying united and working together as a nation, Pakistan can overcome this challenge and move toward a safer future.


Map of the damage caused by the floods from the worst-affected regions of the south to the north: the loss of lives, property, livestock, and inundation of crops.
Map of the damage caused by the floods from the worst-affected regions of the south to the north: the loss of lives, property, livestock, and inundation of crops.

SOURCES


1. UN OCHA – Pakistan 2022 Monsoon Floods: Situation Report

Provides updated data on flood impacts, displacement, and emergency responses.


2. World Bank – Pakistan Floods 2022: Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA)

Covers the estimated $45 billion in damages, destruction of homes, and impact on agriculture and infrastructure.


3. Geo News – Swat Family Dies Waiting for Rescue During Floods

Used for the example of 18 people from the same family dying in the river.


4. NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) – Pakistan

Source for the government role in disaster management and response planning.


5. The Diplomat – Pakistan’s Youth Lead Flood Relief Efforts

Used to support youth involvement in social media activism, volunteering, and donation campaigns.


6. Ministry of Climate Change – Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Project

Referenced for national-level climate and reforestation solutions.


Get Involved with Climate Kills Initiative (CKI)

This article was written as part of the Climate Kills Initiative, a global, youth-led nonprofit empowering students to research, educate, and advocate for climate justice.

💡 Want to write for us, conduct climate research, or launch your campaign?

🌱 Join a network of passionate students making a real impact around the world.

👉 Apply now in the "Get Involved" section

Together, we’re transforming climate knowledge into action.




 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page