Pakistan is grappling with an alarming dual challenge: a steep decline in migratory bird populations and the intensifying impacts of extreme weather patterns.
A Shrinking Haven for Migratory Birds
Once renowned for its wetlands that drew millions of migratory birds from Siberia and beyond, Pakistan’s southern Sindh province is witnessing a dramatic drop in avian visitors. The Sindh Wildlife Department’s recent waterfowl count reveals a sobering trend: from 1.2 million birds in 2023, numbers have fallen to just 545,000 this year—a stark decline of more than 50% in two years.
This rapid decline is attributed to a combination of prolonged drought, receding water levels, and habitat degradation. Key wetland habitats like Manchar, Keenjhar, and Hamal lakes, along with Nareri lagoon and the Rann of Kutch wildlife sanctuary, have been particularly affected. These wetlands, recognized internationally under Ramsar certification, once served as critical stopovers for migratory birds traveling the 4,500-kilometre journey along the Indus Flyway.
The consequences of this habitat crisis are felt across provinces. In Punjab, wildlife officials have observed similar trends as climate change, water shortages, and prolonged heat spells disrupt seasonal migration patterns. Ornithologists, such as Karachi-based Zohaib Ahmed, argue that habitat degradation and illegal hunting also play significant roles in this decline. Despite official claims of controlling poaching, Ahmed contends that hunting and trapping of migratory birds—particularly in areas like the Kirthar range and Karachi’s coastal belt—remain unchecked.
Weather Extremes and Human Vulnerability
Adding to the country’s ecological woes, Pakistan is also in the grip of extreme weather. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a five-day heatwave alert for Punjab, with temperatures soaring to nearly 50 degrees Celsius in some areas. Southern Punjab cities, including Dera Ghazi Khan and Bahawalpur, have been placed under a “Heatwave Emergency,” while central Punjab regions are facing severe “Hot Day Warnings.”
Simultaneously, the PMD warns of the risk of widespread flooding during the upcoming monsoon season. Above-average rainfall is projected for July through September, raising concerns about urban flooding in major cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. While the northeast and AJK are expected to see heavy rains, northern areas such as Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa are forecast to receive below-normal precipitation.
The ongoing heatwave has already led to casualties. In Attock district, a child died and several others were injured due to rain-related incidents, while in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, four deaths and multiple injuries were reported from rain-related accidents.
Intersecting Crises, a Call for Action
Pakistan’s dual crises—ecological decline and climate extremes—underscore the country’s vulnerability as one of the most climate-affected nations. The rapid loss of migratory birds is a stark indicator of ecosystem distress, while the heatwaves and monsoon rains reveal the direct human toll of environmental disruption.
Together, these challenges highlight the urgent need for comprehensive climate resilience strategies that address both habitat protection and disaster preparedness. From safeguarding wetlands and controlling illegal wildlife trade to investing in infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather, Pakistan’s future hinges on proactive adaptation to a changing climate.
