Swat Basin Faces Over 5°C Warming by Century’s End, Warns Assessment

ISLAMABAD: A recent glacier risk assessment has revealed that the Swat basin is projected to experience a temperature increase of more than 5°C by the end of the century, particularly during the months from October to June. This alarming forecast highlights the urgent need for climate action in the region.

The assessment, conducted by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), indicates that while winter rainfall patterns are expected to remain relatively stable, summer rainfall could potentially more than double under certain climate scenarios. This shift is likely to exacerbate the risk of severe flooding and erosion, posing significant threats to local infrastructure and agriculture.

With over 10,000 glaciers in the Swat basin, the implications of these changes are profound. The assessment warns of a short-term increase in water availability due to glacier melt and runoff, followed by a long-term decline as glaciers continue to recede. This cycle could lead to agricultural losses, increased erosion in valley areas, and a precarious balance of water resources.

In light of these findings, stakeholders are urged to prioritize climate resilience strategies and infrastructure improvements to mitigate the risks associated with these environmental changes. The GCF has previously conducted similar assessments in other regions, emphasizing the global nature of the climate crisis and the need for collaborative efforts to address its impacts.