Overpopulation Threatens Pakistan’s Economy
Overpopulation is putting Pakistan’s economy at risk, increasing pressure on the country’s resources, infrastructure, and socio-economic stability.
The claims were made this week by Meher Kashif Younis, coordinator to Minister of State and Federal Tax Ombudsman, as he addressed a conference on the ‘Impact of Overpopulation on Pakistan Economy’.
The conference was supported by the Gold Ring Economic Forum (GREF), a strategic think-tank and lobbying group focused on strengthening strategic economic cooperation between Pakistan, China, Iran, Russia and Turkey.
Meher Kashif stated that, with a population surpassing 220 million, Pakistan was grappling with the adverse consequences of overpopulation which are permeating numerous sectors, placing strain on natural resources and exacerbating environmental degradation. He added that excessive use of water, deforestation, and increased pollution were direct consequences of human overpopulation, posing threats to sustainable development and intensifying climate change-related concerns.
The coordinator said that rapid urbanisation, driven by population growth, has led to the emergence of slums and inadequate living conditions, causing socio-economic disparities.
“To mitigate its impact, we must prioritize comprehensive family planning programs, invest in education and healthcare infrastructure, and implement policies that promote sustainable resource management,” said Meher Kashif.
He insisted that overpopulation threatens Pakistan’s economy and that addressing these challenges is a prerequisite for fostering economic growth, social well-being, and environmental sustainability.
Meher Kashif Younis also said that the spiralling population was escalating competition for employment, leading to a higher unemployment rate. This has not only strained the country’s social fabric, he claimed, but also contributed to heightened poverty levels, with a substantial portion of the populace struggling to secure sustainable livelihoods.
The coordinator concluded that overpopulation was affecting Pakistan’s ability to keep pace with global advancements and hampering its economic competitiveness on the international stage.
Submitted by Friends of Retha
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