Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination spokesperson Mohammad Saleem Shaikh says rapid population growth is posing a major challenge to Pakistan's environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

In a statement on World Population Day, he said the situation requires integrated measures to address demographic pressures alongside climate action and sustainable development.

Saleem Shaikh said the government is focusing on voluntary, rights-based family planning, women's empowerment, reproductive healthcare and sustainable resource management.

He said the rising population is increasing pressure on water, food, energy and public services while intensifying climate vulnerabilities amid more frequent floods, droughts and heatwaves.

He stressed that climate resilience depends not only on adaptation measures but also on investment in human capital through education, healthcare, skills development and sustainable urban planning.

Calling for a whole-of-government approach, Saleem Shaikh said population stabilization, climate action and sustainable development are closely linked national priorities.