Pakistan has developed a climate forecasting system capable of providing outlooks up to 12 months ahead.
This is a big achievement, as India itself cannot predict specific, day-to-day weather 12 months in advance. Indian authorities find long-range climate forecasts inaccurate.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb discussed the system and efforts to improve its capabilities during a meeting with outgoing National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik and incoming Chairman Lieutenant General Hasan Khattak on October 23.
Aurangzeb described climate change and population growth as Pakistan’s two existential challenges, with significant implications for economic stability, food security, communities and public finances.
He said climate change and its impact on Pakistan were also discussed with international partners during the recent IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings.
Pakistan Seeks to Improve Climate Early Warnings
Malik briefed the finance minister on the forecasting system and ongoing efforts to enhance its capabilities.
Aurangzeb emphasized the need to translate forecasts into timely decisions and effective early warning measures, supported by coordination with the Pakistan Meteorological Department and other relevant agencies.
The NDMA leadership outlined initiatives involving the Global Resilience Hub and Next Generation Technologies, aimed at moving Pakistan from reactive disaster response toward proactive, technology-driven risk reduction.
The initiatives could support knowledge sharing, showcase Pakistan’s forecasting capabilities and strengthen engagement with international partners.
The meeting also highlighted the need to develop national expertise in climate science and forecasting through structured training, specialized technical personnel and clear institutional responsibilities.
Aurangzeb stressed that institutional continuity and sustainable technical capacity were essential for long-term climate adaptation, mitigation and disaster risk management.
Govt Seeks Funding for Climate Resilience
Aurangzeb emphasized mobilizing domestic resources and engaging international development partners to finance disaster preparedness and climate resilience. He called for prioritizing investments and developing practical projects with measurable outcomes.
The finance minister appreciated Malik’s contributions during his tenure as NDMA chairman and wished Hasan Khattak well as he assumes leadership of the authority.
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