EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HEALTH AND EDUCATION OF COASTAL COMMUNITIES OF SINDH PROVINCE IN PAKISTAN.

Abstract

Climate change is a serious challenge in developing world especially for vulnerable communities. Climate Change has affected Coastal areas bordering the Arabian Sea and Indus River in Sindh. This study has been conducted to assess the climate change effects on the socio-economic conditions, education and health of the people living in the coastal areas of Sindh province in Pakistan. This quantitative research conducted through a survey method in the coastal districts of Thatta and Badin in Sindh. A total of 224 participants were selected through multi-stage sampling method in initial phase but among them 200 participant agreed to participate in the survey. This study noted major climate change events like excessive heatwaves, abrupt rain pattern, frequent floods, rising sea levels and increasing soil erosion and salinity in the area in recent five to ten years. This study has noted significant impact of climate change on livelihood of people and increased the migration and displacement of the population in the area. According to the survey results the health and education of the local population have been affected at large by the climate change and people are facing various challenges due to changing climate in the region. In this scenario, this study suggests to make robust policies and strategies for resilient infrastructure, enhancing disaster preparedness and improving health and education facilities in the coastal areas of Sindh province of Pakistan.