By Our Staff Reporter
Pakistan is facing an unprecedented population crisis, with rapid population growth placing immense pressure on limited national resources, said Secretary Population Welfare Department Zafar Ali Buledi on Tuesday.
Addressing an awareness session under the Tawazun Narrative Program in Quetta, Buladi warned that Pakistan has now become the fifth most populous country in the world, describing the situation as a “population tsunami.” He stressed that the traditional focus on limiting family size has evolved into a broader concept of population balance, which emphasizes maintaining harmony between family size and available resources.
“Balanced population growth is essential for sustainable development,” Buladi said, adding that unchecked growth threatens access to education, healthcare, employment, and basic services.
The session was attended by district officers and newly appointed doctors. UNFPA Provincial Lead Dr. Saadia Atta, Director (Tech) Dr. Ambreen Mengal, Director PMCT Abdul Sattar Shahwani, Habiba, and other officials also addressed the gathering.
Speakers highlighted that rapid population growth in Pakistan has intensified social and economic challenges, widening the gap between population needs and available resources. They noted that while family planning was previously seen only as a numerical limitation, the Tawazun approach promotes informed decision-making to ensure healthier families and communities.
Speakers highlighted that rapid population growth in Pakistan has intensified social and economic challenges, widening the gap between population needs and available resources. They noted that while family planning was previously seen only as a numerical limitation, the Tawazun approach promotes informed decision-making to ensure healthier families and communities.
Serious concern was expressed over maternal and newborn mortality rates in Balochistan, which remain significantly higher than in other provinces. According to the speakers, poor health infrastructure and low awareness about family planning are key contributors to these outcomes.
They warned that uncontrolled population growth is directly linked to rising poverty, unemployment, and health issues, particularly in underserved regions.
Through the Tawazun Narrative Program, the government and UNFPA aim to improve maternal and child health, promote safe motherhood, and foster a healthier society. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the program to remote areas of Balochistan, aligning population balance efforts with the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The speakers concluded that managing population growth through awareness and balanced planning is critical to securing Pakistan’s economic stability and social well-being.
