Vulnerability of Water Resources and Sanitation Infrastructure to Climate Change in Rural Pakistan: Implications for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

Climate change poses unprecedented threats, including rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased extreme weather events, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities and perpetuating poverty, gender inequality, and social injustice. This qualitative study assesses the climate vulnerability of water resources and sanitation infrastructure in rural Punjab, Pakistan, and its implications for sustainable development. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, this research commences with qualitative data collection and analysis to contextualize findings. The study examines hydro-climatic trends, socio-economic disparities, and gender inequities exacerbated by climate change. Key findings include severe groundwater depletion (0.7 m/year), sanitation failures, and systemic neglect of marginalized communities. The research highlights how climate stressors undermine progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 (Clean Water) and 13 (Climate Action) while perpetuating poverty (SDG 1) and gender inequality (SDG 5). To address these challenges, the study recommends integrated water governance, climate-resilient sanitation, and community-led adaptation strategies. This research informs policy and practice aimed at enhancing climate resilience and achieving sustainable development in rural Pakistan.