Federal Minister Dr. Musadik Malik has revealed that Pakistan is suffering a staggering loss of 9.5% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually due to flood-related damages, a crisis that has claimed 4,700 lives in the country’s last four major floods.
Speaking at a panel discussion titled “Climate Resilience: Who Pays the Price for Delay?” organized by the Pakistan Business Council, the minister on Thursday emphasized the devastating consequences of climate change on the country.
Detailing the discussion from the panel on Twitter, Dr. Malik said that in addition to the fatalities, the recent floods have left 18,000 people injured or disabled and displaced three million citizens. He stressed that the true cost of climate change is not merely financial, as it severely impacts lives, education, and long-term well-being.
The federal minister also pointed to the environmental chain reaction, explaining that the melting of Himalayan glaciers is fundamentally altering rainfall patterns, river flows, and the country’s crucial canal system.
He added that these environmental shifts pose serious and growing threats to Pakistan’s food security.
Highlighting a stark disparity, the minister described Pakistan as a victim of climate injustice. He pointed out that the country contributes less than 1% to global carbon emissions, yet it ranks among the world’s most vulnerable to its effects.
In contrast, he stated that two neighboring countries are responsible for 40% of global emissions, while a group of just ten countries accounts for 70% of the total.
Dr. Malik concluded with a stern warning, stating that if immediate and decisive climate action is not taken, the resulting human and economic losses will be irreparable.