Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has said Pakistan is unfairly suffering the devastating consequences of climate change caused by wealthy nations, despite having little role in environmental destruction.
Visiting flood-hit areas in his hometown of Sialkot, he warned that glaciers are melting, clouds are bursting, rivers are overflowing, and more than 600 people have already been affected by torrential rains and floods.
Pakistan paying the price for climate crisis
Speaking exclusively to Samaa TV, Asif said global warming is melting glaciers and bursting river banks, while developing countries like Pakistan are left to face the brunt of disasters.
“Climate change is not Pakistan’s fault; it is the fault of rich countries who are destroying the environment. We are suffering the consequences,” he remarked.
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He added that this year’s rain has been the heaviest since 1976, yet much of the rainwater is wasted in the sea due to lack of water reservoirs. “If we had proper storage arrangements, India’s blackmail under the Indus Water Treaty would not have been possible,” he stressed.
Flood threats and India’s role
The minister also reviewed the rising water levels in Nullah Eik and other low-lying areas of Sialkot, directing local authorities and rescue teams to stay on high alert. He warned of encroachments along rivers and canals, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where hotels have been built on riverbanks, worsening flood risks.
Reiterating his stance against India, Asif said: “India will fail on the Indus Water Treaty as well. Modi is still licking his wounds. Yesterday, our army won the war; today, they are saving lives in the floods.”
Call for stronger local governance
Highlighting the absence of municipal institutions, Asif stressed the urgent need for empowered local bodies to manage disasters effectively. “Until local governments are established, these problems cannot be solved. In China, 70% of government expenditure is managed by local bodies, and in India, 50%,” he pointed out.
He also urged strict action against illegal deforestation and encroachments, saying indiscriminate cutting of trees is intensifying the damage caused by floods.
Relief and govt assurance
Khawaja Asif assured flood-affected families that the government stands with them in this difficult time. He directed the district administration to provide immediate assistance and prioritize the safety of residents in vulnerable areas.
“The protection of human lives is our top priority. The government will use all available resources for relief and rehabilitation. People must also cooperate with the district administration,” he appealed.
The defense minister added that public representatives would play their role in arranging funds for restoration and compensating flood damages.
