PM declares climate emergency amid devastating floods

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday declared a nationwide climate and agriculture emergency after floods left nearly 1,000 people dead and submerged thousands of acres of farmland, mainly in Punjab.

Chairing a federal cabinet meeting, the premier said the federal government would lead recovery efforts and directed provinces to contribute effectively.

He instructed officials to conduct an immediate assessment of agricultural losses and rehabilitation requirements.

“The threat of climate change cannot be confronted by Pakistan alone,” Shehbaz said, urging urgent measures to protect farmers and vulnerable communities.

The minister for climate change has been tasked with overseeing relief operations.

The floods, which have now entered Sindh, have heightened concerns about food security and infrastructure damage.

The prime minister also condemned what he termed “anti-state propaganda” and paid tribute to Major Adnan Aslam, who was martyred in a clash with militants.

He said he met the officer’s family, noting the pride expressed by his sisters in his sacrifice.