ISLAMABAD: Pakistan plans to strengthen its weather forecasting, disaster preparedness and climate resilience through a series of projects and policy initiatives under the Annual Plan 2026-27, as the country seeks to reduce the growing impact of climate-related disasters.
The plan allocates Rs 1.6 billion to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to enhance forecasting systems and disaster risk management.
Of the total allocation, Rs344 million has been earmarked for the proposed National Centre for Rainfall Enhancement, which aims to improve water security, support climate adaptation, and boost agricultural productivity, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported.
Upgrading Forecasting Systems
The government has also allocated Rs195 million for a weather surveillance radar project in Multan and Rs5 million for a similar project in Sukkur to strengthen real-time weather monitoring and early warning capabilities.
A further Rs1 billion has been set aside for the Modernisation of Hydromet Services in Pakistan project, which seeks to upgrade hydrometeorological infrastructure, improve forecasting accuracy and enhance climate-related data systems.
Green Growth and Conservation
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination is expected to receive Rs2.5 billion, with most of the funding directed towards forestry, biodiversity conservation, afforestation and ecosystem restoration.
Among the key initiatives is the Pakistan Climate Innovation and Green Growth Initiative, designed to equip young people with green skills and promote entrepreneurship through a Green Innovation Fund.
The government also plans to launch a National Forest and Tree Cover Assessment using remote sensing and machine learning technologies to improve forest monitoring and support restoration efforts.
In addition, the Annual Plan outlines measures to promote climate-smart agriculture, efficient water management, disaster risk reduction, green industrialisation, circular economy initiatives and the development of domestic carbon market mechanisms.
Rising Climate Risks
The renewed focus on resilience comes as Pakistan faces increasing climate-related threats.
According to the Annual Plan, major floods in 2010, 2011, 2014, 2022 and 2025 caused widespread damage to infrastructure, livelihoods and the economy.
Citing a 2022 World Bank report, the document says Pakistan incurs average annual losses of around $2 billion from floods and earthquakes.
It warns that cumulative losses could reach $250 billion by 2030 and $1.2 trillion by 2050, with damage in priority sectors amounting to as much as 30% of gross domestic product (GDP) in a peak disaster year, underscoring the need for greater investment in climate adaptation and disaster preparedness.
