IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON BALOCHISTAN, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Balochistan is territorially Pakistan’s largest province, covering 43 % of its landmass with only around 6 % of the population. Climate Change has impacted Balochistan’s population in multiple ways. The 2022 floods disconnected the whole province from the rest of Pakistan. Roads, railways, and the rest of the infrastructure, including dams, suffered severe damage. The arid environment and the scarce and sporadic population made it difficult for the authorities to provide basic facilities to the population. Climate Change, including shifts in seasonal weather patterns, escalating temperatures, erratic monsoon variations, and the melting of northern glaciers, has made the livelihood of the people of Balochistan difficult. Although Pakistan's contribution to carbon emissions is
nearly 0.9%, it still comes in one of the most vulnerable countries affected by climate change. It is essential to consider that Balochistan already suffers from discontent because of the negligence of government and state institutions, precarious law and order situation, separatist tendencies backed by foreign actors because of Balochistan’s strategic significance, and Gwadar’s critical role and potential in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The impact of climate change may aggravate the tensions because people are forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in more habitable areas, which could lead to potential conflicts over resources. This study employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing academic literature, grey literature, and primary data collected through interviews with officials from the Department of Disaster Management Authorities and residents and volunteers. It highlights how climate change has exacerbated the drying up of water reservoirs and the destruction of crops, thus causing migration to urban centres over food insecurity, and a lack of infrastructure and civic amenities. The paper also recommends ways to overcome these impediments and convert the negative implications of climate change into positive outcomes by adopting a peoplecentric and proactive disaster management approach.