s Pakistan struggles with a deepening water scarcity crisis, the spotlight has once again turned toward the glaciers and snow-capped peaks that sustain life across much of the country. For nations like Pakistan, where a majority of water resources depend on the melting snow and glaciers of the Hindu Kush-Himalayas, the stakes are incredibly high. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, in partnership with regional stakeholders, has been spearheading efforts under the Global Goal on Adaptation to address the challenges of climate change in mountainous regions. A recent participation in the Regional Experts’ Workshop on developing mountain indicators for the GGA has deepened our understanding of the critical need for focused action to preserve glaciers and ensure water security.

The HKH glaciers, often referred to as the Third Pole, are vital sources of freshwater for millions of people, including over 240 million in the mountainous regions and more than 1.6 billion downstream. In Pakistan, the Indus River system, which sustains the livelihoods of countless communities, is heavily reliant on snowmelt from the Karakoram and other mountain ranges. As the planet warms, these glaciers are retreating at an alarming rate, triggering cascading impacts on water supply, agriculture and the broader ecosystem. This is not just a regional issue; it is a global crisis that requires innovative and collective solutions.

The Global Goal on Adaptation, adopted under the Paris Agreement, presents an unprecedented opportunity for Pakistan to align its climate adaptation strategies with global efforts. The GGA aims to enhance adaptive capacity, strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate change. The recent workshop I attended focused on developing context-specific indicators to measure progress in adapting mountain ecosystems, specifically in the HKH region. These indicators, crucial for understanding the unique challenges of mountainous areas, can help Pakistan tailor its climate adaptation policies to better protect glaciers, water resources and the communities dependent on them.

Given the international recognition of the GGA’s importance, the challenge lies in translating these high-level frameworks into actionable policies. For Pakistan, this means focusing on innovative solutions that go beyond traditional water management and climate resilience strategies. Let’s consider some potential pathways to ensure the long-term survival of glaciers and the sustainable management of water resources.

One of the most urgent priorities is integrating glacier conservation into national water management policies. Pakistan’s water resources are in a precarious state, with over 90 percent of the country’s water use directed toward agriculture, highly dependent on irrigation. The retreat of glaciers in the Karakoram and Himalayan ranges means less water for agriculture, which exacerbates food insecurity and reduces agricultural productivity. Water-use efficiency needs to be prioritised through smart irrigation technologies, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting systems, which can optimise water use and reduce waste. Additionally, Pakistan must invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, such as reservoirs and dams that capture and store seasonal glacier melt for use during dry periods.

Pakistan’s future depends on its ability to protect and manage its mountain ecosystems, especially the glaciers that are the lifeblood of its water resources. 

The GGA’s focus on early warning systems is another crucial aspect. Given the increasing frequency of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) that can devastate downstream communities, Pakistan should prioritise the development of real-time monitoring systems for glaciers and glacial lakes. These systems can alert communities to potential risks, allowing for early evacuation and disaster mitigation. Integrating community-based monitoring with satellite data can enhance the accuracy of these systems, ensuring that local communities are both informed and empowered to take action.

Ecosystem-based solutions also play a key role in enhancing resilience to climate change impacts. Mountain ecosystems, which include glaciers, forests, wetlands and springs, are integral to maintaining water quality and supply. Pakistan must focus on restoring and protecting these ecosystems, particularly through wetland restoration projects and the conservation of forests and biodiversity. These ecosystems act as natural buffers, regulating water cycles, preventing soil erosion and sustaining biodiversity. Community-driven initiatives, such as community forest management and the restoration of traditional water systems, can ensure that adaptation strategies are locally rooted and effective.

Another innovative solution lies in financing climate adaptation. One of the key takeaways from the GGA workshop was the recognition of the growing financial gap in climate adaptation, particularly in developing countries. Pakistan must advocate for increased international climate financing to support adaptation projects in vulnerable regions. However, reliance on external funding alone is not sustainable. Pakistan should also explore public-private partnerships and climate-risk insurance schemes to incentivise private investment in climate-resilient infrastructure and water management projects. Innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and blended finance, can be used to attract private-sector investment and mobilize capital for climate adaptation initiatives.

A key focus of the GGA is ensuring that adaptation policies are inclusive, taking into account the needs of vulnerable communities, including women and indigenous groups. In mountainous regions, women are often the primary water collectors and are disproportionately affected by water scarcity. Gender-sensitive policies must be integrated into climate adaptation strategies to ensure that women have access to resources, education and leadership opportunities in decision-making processes related to water management and climate resilience. Pakistan can take inspiration from community-based water management models, where women play an active role in conserving water resources and ensuring equitable distribution.

Finally, regional cooperation is essential for addressing the transboundary nature of water resources in the HKH region. The Indus River system, which provides water to Pakistan, is shared with India and China, making cooperation crucial for managing water resources sustainably. The GGA framework emphasises the importance of collaborative adaptation efforts between countries that share water bodies. Pakistan should continue to strengthen its regional partnerships and actively participate in forums that promote science diplomacy, ensuring that knowledge, data and best practices are exchanged to address the common challenges posed by climate change.

Pakistan’s future depends on its ability to protect and manage its mountain ecosystems, especially the glaciers. The Global Goal on Adaptation provides a valuable framework, but it is up to us to innovate and act boldly. Whether through technology, financing, community involvement, or international collaboration, the time to act is now. Let us commit to saving the snow, preserving our glaciers, securing our water and building a resilient future for Pakistan and the world.

The writer is a policy analyst and researcher with a master’s degree in public policy from King’s College, London.