The Indus River, which runs through China, India and Pakistan, serves as a lifeline for millions of people. In Pakistan, where nearly 90% of the country’s population depend on its waters, the river is increasingly under threat from the intensifying impacts of climate change and the pressures of rapid population growth. In response, ICIMOD – working in close partnership with Pakistan’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, UNICEF Pakistan, and UN Women Pakistan – co-developed a river basin-wide approach to address water challenges arising from cryosphere change in the Upper Indus Basin.

This collaborative approach led to the development of a joint proposal that enabled us to secure a USD 10 million Adaptation Fund (AF) project – Sustainable Actions for Ecosystems Restoration in Pakistan (SAFER Pakistan). By enhancing early warning systems, restoring critical water sources through adoption of nature-based approaches, and empowering local communities – especially women, children, and youth – SAFER Pakistan is poised to deliver substantial improvements in climate resilience and water governance.

This achievement marks a significant milestone as ICIMOD’s first successful effort to mobilise AF finance for one of our RMCs. SAFER Pakistan aims to contribute to the country’s national adaptation plans whilst strengthening ICIMOD’s engagement with the AF in its capacity as a regional implementing entity.