Sindh is facing severe challenges due to climate change, making it one of the hardest-hit regions in the country. The province has been experiencing extreme weather events, including floods, droughts, and heatwaves, which are exacerbated by rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns.
Sindh has witnessed catastrophic flooding events, notably in 2010 and 2022. The 2010 floods caused approximately USD 9.7 billion in damages, while the 2022 floods resulted in nearly half of the 1,600 deaths recorded nationwide and significant destruction of infrastructure and homes.
The floods have severely impacted agricultural livelihoods, with two-thirds of Sindh’s population relying on agriculture for their income.
The province has also experienced prolonged drought conditions, particularly affecting regions like Thar Desert and Achhro Thar since 2013. These droughts have led to water scarcity and have further strained agricultural productivity.
Sindh’s climate is characterized by rising temperatures, projected to increase by about 5°C by the end of the century. This rise will heighten evaporation rates, intensifying water demand for irrigation and household use.
Additionally, sea levels along the Karachi coast have risen approximately 10 centimeters over the past century and are expected to rise further, threatening low-lying coastal areas.
The socio-economic repercussions of climate change in Sindh are profound. Increased frequency of climate-related disasters has led to significant economic losses estimated at USD 26 billion from 1995 to 2014 due to extreme weather events. Vulnerable communities, particularly women and marginalized groups, face heightened risks as they often lack resources to adapt effectively.
In response to these challenges, the Sindh government has initiated various projects aimed at enhancing resilience against climate impacts. One notable effort is the World Bank-funded Sindh Resilience Project (SRP), which includes constructing small recharge dams to mitigate drought and flood risks.
Additionally, the Sindh Climate Change Policy aims to provide a comprehensive framework for adaptation and mitigation strategies across various sectors such as agriculture and water management.
Sindh’s situation exemplifies the urgent need for effective climate adaptation strategies to address the ongoing impacts of climate change. Collective efforts from government bodies, NGOs, and local communities are crucial for building resilience and safeguarding livelihoods in this vulnerable province.