Nasir Chughtai
“A nation’s strength—not gold but only men can make a people great and strong.”
AS Pakistan navigates turbulent times, its citizens are increasingly feeling the effects of erratic weather patterns. Phenomena once considered unprecedented are now being examined in depth. Experts are employing state-of-the-art technologies to study climate impacts both holistically and at a local scale. The causes and indicators are increasingly evident, including humanity’s continued growth, the ever-increasing demand for finite resources, and inefficient lifestyles that inflict further damage on ecological balance.
This is a moment for the people of Pakistan to rethink their approach to sustainability and consider the future of generations to come. While the threat of climate change may appear gradual and often invisible, a transition is also underway. The declining dependence on hydrocarbon-fuelled power generation and the growing number of fuel-efficient hybrid and electric vehicles demonstrate that efforts are being made to address the challenge.
Given the speed and magnitude of global climate change, coupled with a growing population, no one will remain unaffected if we fail to unite against this threat. We must embrace greener lifestyles and livelihoods. Adopting a more minimalist way of life can help conserve resources and safeguard the future of coming generations and humanity itself. Technological innovations have renewed hope for an effective response to impending disasters. While the devastating consequences of climate-related events often dominate public attention, important measures are also being taken to avert destruction and mitigate their impact.
“They build a nation’s pillars deep and lift them to the sky.”
Pakistan’s proactive disaster-management system gained momentum following the devastating floods of 2022, with support from the Prime Minister’s Office and through the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The country’s disaster-preparedness efforts have since included the establishment of the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC).
Serving as a hub for information, analysis, decision-making and coordination, the NEOC has played an important role in strengthening early-warning and disaster-response mechanisms. From helping prevent potential casualties during Cyclone Biparjoy to issuing advance alerts for communities living in the dried channel of the Sutlej River, the centre has contributed to efforts to protect lives and livelihoods. The response to the 2025 floods, reportedly undertaken without international intervention and praised by a UN regional coordinator, has also been cited as an example of Pakistan’s improving disaster-management capacity.
These developments reflect the country’s efforts over the past three years to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach under the leadership of the NDMA chairman. They also highlight the constructive capabilities and professional commitment of Pakistan’s armed forces, whose role extends beyond defence to include humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Pakistan has now established a stronger foundation for confronting the challenges posed by climate change. However, national resilience depends on coordinated efforts at every level—from individuals and communities to local, provincial and federal governments—as well as effective multilateral cooperation and international diplomacy.
Just as climate-related threats discriminate against neither age nor ethnicity nor gender, the response must be inclusive. Building resilience requires a change in mindset, the promotion of simpler and more sustainable lifestyles, environmental awareness among younger generations from an early age, and a comprehensive review of systems and procedures to ensure the efficient management of available resources. These measures are essential not only for sustainable development but also for the long-term survival and well-being of future generations.
—The writer is Manager/CEO, Disaster Management and Climate Change.