Karachi: The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has voiced its condolences over the tragic flash floods in Nepal, urging Pakistan to enhance its investment in climate resilience, early-warning systems, and disaster preparedness. The Nepal floods have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives, with thousands more missing, impacting numerous families and communities.

According to Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the scale of the disaster in Nepal serves as a critical reminder to Pakistan, which has historically faced severe flooding, displacement, and destruction. The OICCI emphasized the importance of proactive disaster preparation. Highlighting Pakistan's vulnerability to climate-related risks, the Chamber noted that rising temperatures, accelerated glacial melt, and shifting rainfall patterns continue to threaten the country's communities and economy.

The economic repercussions of climate change in Pakistan are significant, with the country losing approximately one percent of its GDP annually due to climate impacts, as highlighted by Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Musadik Masood Malik earlier this year. The OICCI acknowledged recent Pakistani efforts to strengthen early-warning systems but stressed the need for a comprehensive model that anticipates risks and enables proactive community and infrastructure protection.

Investment in climate-resilient infrastructure and community preparedness will be crucial as extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity. The Chamber affirmed its solidarity with the people of Nepal and those affected by the floods, advocating for a future where communities are better equipped to withstand climate shocks.