The recent severe wind and storm that struck Punjab resulted in extensive structural damage, with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab attributing the destruction primarily to poorly installed rooftop solar panels. Speaking on Geo News’ morning program “Geo Pakistan,” Director General PDMA Punjab, Irfan Ali Kathia, described the weather conditions as “unprecedented” and “beyond expectations.”
He acknowledged that while heavy rainfall had been anticipated, the extreme intensity of the weather system was unforeseen. Kathia revealed that 124 incidents of structural collapse have been reported across Punjab to date. He stated that a striking 80% of these incidents were directly linked to rooftop solar panels that lacked adequate safety measures during their installation. “Eighty percent of the collapses involved solar plates. Except for three incidents, all others were caused by these installations,” he disclosed. He added, “We welcome solar technology, but installations must be secure to prevent such tragedies.”
Climate Change and Escalating Extreme Weather: PDMA’s Concerns
The Director General of PDMA also connected the recent extreme weather to broader climate change patterns. He noted that while global temperatures have risen by one to two degrees Celsius, Pakistan has experienced a sudden increase of four to five degrees, leading to more intense heatwaves. He explained, “We are facing the consequences of a 1°C to 1.5°C rise in global temperature. This is the second consecutive year we’ve witnessed a sudden 7°C increase during summer, resulting in severe heatwaves.”
Kathia urged citizens to prepare for worsening weather patterns, emphasizing the clear link between rising temperatures and extreme climate events. In response, the government has implemented various protective measures, including enhanced water supply efforts and early warning systems. However, Kathia highlighted the critical need for regional cooperation and robust long-term strategies. He concluded, “For any real reduction in temperature, we need serious action — afforestation, better urban planning, and collective efforts across South Asia.”
