POLICY GAPS AND GOVERNANCE CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTING CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES IN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA

Abstract

The problem of climate change is a serious challenge to the socio-economic and environmental sustainability of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Even with the introduction of several climate adaptation policies at both national and provincial levels, there remains a significant challenge to their effective implementation. This paper examines the gaps in policy and governance issues that impede the implementation of climate adaptation policies in KP. By analyzing documents and interviewing stakeholders, including environmental agencies, local governments, and development agencies, the study examines flaws in institutional coordination, financial processes, and the enforcement of policy. The results indicate that KP policies on climate change correlate quite well with those of Pakistan's National Climate Change Policy, but their effects are mitigated by institutional fragmentation, a lack of technical capacity, and the community's limited involvement. A lack of monitoring structures and data-driven planning also limits the effectiveness of adaptation. The paper highlights that an integrated and inclusive governance strategy is required to improve interdepartmental cooperation, empower local governments, and facilitate effective stakeholder involvement. Increased resilience and sustainable development of KP can be achieved by strengthening governance structures and integrating climate adaptation into provincial planning processes