CLIMATE risk is emerging as an important dimension of Pakistan’s maritime economy, but the one that is probably the biggest yet least discussed. The warming of the Arabian Sea is an issue that hasn’t gotten the same level of attention as floods, droughts and rising temperatures on land, but it’s a serious problem for the economy. Marine Heat Waves (MHWs) are increasing in frequency and severity, threatening the fisheries sector, seafood trade and coastal livelihoods of Pakistan. The Arabian Sea is one of the fastest-warming tropical seas. Sea temperature increases are changing marine ecosystems, as they are decreasing Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and affecting the distribution of fish stocks. These can also be aggravated by climate patterns like the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). El Niño’s impact is felt in the Indian Ocean, such as the Arabian Sea, though it is a result of events in the Pacific Ocean. Atmospheric circulation changes during El Niño can help fuel warmer sea surface temperatures, which can lead to more marine heat waves. The combination of these natural cycles of climate and long term global warming makes it even more severe on marine ecosystems.

However, the consequences of this impact........

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