ISLAMABAD: A startling revelation has emerged as official documents from the Ministry of Planning indicate that nearly 50% of Pakistan’s economy is exposed to flood risks.
According to the report, flood-prone areas contribute about half of the national GDP, making the economy highly vulnerable to both urban flooding and riverine floods.
Lahore, with an 11.5% share in national GDP, has been identified as a high-risk city. Karachi faces even greater exposure, contributing 20% to GDP while remaining under significant flood threat.
Other major cities including Peshawar, Multan, Quetta, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi are also listed as highly vulnerable. Peshawar’s GDP share stands at 2%, Multan contributes 3%, Quetta’s share is 1.1%, and Islamabad and Rawalpindi together contribute 2.3% of the national GDP.
Experts warn that in the event of a major flood, Pakistan’s economy could suffer severe damage, given that its largest urban and commercial hubs are increasingly sensitive to climate-induced disasters.
