Social, Economic and Environmental Impacts of Hydrologic Extremes in Pakistan: A Meta-Analysis Approach

Abstract

Hydrologic extremes are a complex phenomenon and global issue that affects every sphere of human activities. A deeper understanding and awareness of its social, economic, and environmental impacts in Pakistan is necessary. Therefore, this research synthesized qualitative investigations about social, economic, and environmental impacts in Pakistan and included a thematic analysis. Findings show that the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the hydrologic extremes in Pakistan were uneven. While areas near the sea, rivers, and dams are vulnerable to the flood, arid areas are vulnerable to droughts. Likewise, there were already serious inequalities in power relations and access to resources before every hydrologic extreme event, which influenced in numerous ways how households can recover. Women and children faced more complex social issues. Poor men faced more economic challenges.