Paper details
| Paper authors | Dr. Junaid Razzak |
| In panel on | Building Climate-Resilient Health Systems in Humanitarian Crises: Examples from Research and Practice |
| Paper presenter(s) will be presenting |
In-Person / |
Abstract
Pakistan ranks 5th on the Global Climate Risk Index, with heatwaves posing a growing threat to public health—especially in Sindh Province. Despite this risk, most districts lack Heat Action Plans (HAPs). Supported by ELRHA, this project aimed to raise public awareness and support the development of locally owned HAPs in five of Sindh’s most vulnerable districts: Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Naushahro Feroze, Dadu, and Larkano.
We produced a 3-minute video in the local language and disseminated it via social media to engage communities. Simultaneously, we partnered with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, Pakistan Meteorological Department, and the Ministry of Health to identify high-risk areas, engage district leadership, and conduct participatory workshops. Over a year-long, iterative process, we facilitated the creation of district-specific HAPs.
This initiative arrives at a critical time, as millions—particularly low-income households, the elderly, outdoor workers, and residents of informal settlements—face heightened vulnerability due to a lack of organized government response, limited access to cooling, and frequent power outages. Our model demonstrates a scalable, city-led approach to climate resilience, empowering local governments with the tools to protect lives amid increasingly extreme climate conditions.
