From melting glaciers to flood management

Pakistan’s hydrological system is a lifeline for its people, agriculture, and ecosystems. Yet, it is under immense pressure due to climate change, unsustainable practices, and rapid population growth. Glaciers in the northern mountains of Pakistan are melting at an unprecedented rate, feeding the Indus River and its tributaries before the water ultimately flows into the Arabian Sea. This phenomenon has far-reaching implications for the country’s overall water resources, agriculture, and disaster management systems. The glaciers of the Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Himalayan ranges are the primary water source for the Indus River, which sustains the livelihoods of millions of Pakistanis. Recent studies indicate that climate change is accelerating glacial melt, resulting in a temporary increase in river flows. While this might seem beneficial, the reality is that this water surplus is not being efficiently captured or utilised, and future water availability is expected to decline as glaciers recede.