Climate Minister Warns of “Natural Terrorism” as Floods Threaten Pakistan’s Growth
Islamabad : ( Aamer Rafique butt ) Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Masood Malik addressed the 4th Pakistan Climate Conference, describing climate change as a form of “natural terrorism” for the country.
Speaking at the Karachi event, Dr. Malik highlighted the severe economic and human toll of recurring floods, noting that while Pakistan achieves a 3–4 percent growth rate, these disasters erase 7–10 percent of GDP at regular intervals. He underscored the human cost, revealing that over 6,000 lives have been lost in recent floods, with 40 million people displaced, including 20 million children forced out of school.
The minister warned that climate disasters push entire generations back into poverty, adversely impacting GDP, education, and social stability. He criticized global climate inaction, pointing out that a small number of countries produce the bulk of carbon emissions, while developing nations like Pakistan bear the brunt.
Dr. Malik also raised concerns about green financing, saying it often comes in the form of loans, with funds originally intended for health and education redirected toward reconstruction and debt servicing.
Emphasizing adaptation, he noted that while floods cannot be fully prevented, their impact can be mitigated through better planning, protection of natural flood paths, restoration of mangroves and forests, aquifer recharge, and preservation of clean rivers.
Outlining a three-pillar strategy restoring existing resources, expanding current infrastructure, and building new climate-resilient systems Dr. Malik called on industries to invest in youth-led green innovations. He also announced the upcoming launch of youth-driven climate solutions and a Virtual Green University after Eid to foster sustainable ideas and climate action.
#Pakistan #ClimateChange #Floods #EconomicLosses #YouthInnovation #ClimateResilience #DrMusadikMasoodMalik #diplomatsWorld
