THE Himalayan, Karakoram and Hindu Kush ranges are warming up two to three times faster than the global average. The recent glacier collapse along the Nepal-Tibet border was direct evidence that human-induced climate change is now triggering catastrophic glacial failures. Given its location, Pakistan faces the same risk as did Nepal, but at a much larger scale. Pakistan has thousands of glaciers — the largest ice reserves outside the poles. For Pakistan, glacial instability is a national security, economic and humanitarian issue.
Beyond extreme weather, climate change will significantly impact Pakistan’s food and water security. Infrastructure risks are also mounting. It is clear that glacial collapse is a transboundary crisis. Pakistan must take a leading role regionally and domestically across a wide range of fronts.
Climate-resilient infrastructure, flood-resistant housing, climate-smart agriculture, and watershed management in mountainous landscapes should be prioritised. As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, Pakistan should advocate globally that financing for loss and damage is not charity; it is an obligation.
The Nepal-Tibet tragedy and Pakistan’s 2022 floods underline the need for historical polluters to pay the frontline states for adaptation and energy transition. With decisive action on adaptation, stronger regional cooperation and access to climate finance, Pakistan can significantly reduce the massive risk that it is currently facing.
Dr Ainy Zehra
Islamabad
Published in Dawn, October 21st, 2026
