Over Population Poses Great Challenge to Economy

APP
Lahore: Coordinator to Minister of State and Federal Tax Ombudsman Meher Kashif Younis said that overpopulation had posed a great challenge to Pakistan’s economy, exerting pressure on resources, infrastructure, and socio-economic stability.
He was addressing a conference on “Impact of Overpopulation on Pakistan’s Economy” held under the aegis of the Gold Ring Economic Forum (GREF), a strategic think-tank.
Meher Kashif said with a population surpassing 220 million, Pakistan grappled with the adverse consequences of overpopulation that permeate various sectors.
He said natural resources were strained, exacerbating environmental degradation and excessiveuse of water, deforestation, and increased pollution were direct consequences, posing threats to sustainable development and exacerbating climate change-related concerns.
The coordinator said that rapid urbanization, driven by population growth, leads to the emergence of slums and inadequate living conditions, further exacerbating socio-economic disparities.
“To mitigate its impact, we must prioritize comprehensive family planning programs, invest ineducation and healthcare infrastructure, and implement policies that promote sustainable resource management,” he added.
Addressing these challenges is a prerequisite for fostering economic growth and social well-being and environmental sustainability in Pakistan.
Meher said the burgeoning population intensified competition for employment.
leading to a higher unemployment rate; this not only strained the social fabric but also contributed to heightened poverty levels as a substantial portion of the populace struggled to secure sustainable livelihoods.
It affects the nation’s ability to keep pace with global advancements and hinders its economic competitiveness on the international stage, he concluded.