Pakistan’s rapidly growing population has become a major challenge for the government, with a new report warning that the country’s population could exceed 390 million over the next 25 years.
The joint report by the Planning Commission and the UN Population Fund says limited resources and slow economic growth could make current planning for education, health and employment insufficient.
According to the report, Pakistan’s population is projected to increase by 62% by 2050. Even if family planning efforts are accelerated, the population is still expected to exceed 370 million.
The report warns that this surge will place growing pressure on the economy, urban facilities and basic infrastructure.
Provincial estimates for 2050
Punjab’s population is expected to reach 200 million by 2050. Sindh’s population is projected to rise to 91.2 million, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is estimated to reach 68 million.
Balochistan is expected to record the highest population increase, rising by 68%. Islamabad’s population is projected to grow from 2.3 million to 6.5 million.
Children and working-age population
The number of children under the age of 18 is expected to reach 140 million by 2050. The working-age population is projected to increase by 89% to 250 million.
The report says Pakistan will need stronger economic growth to create jobs for its expanding youth population.
Pakistan’s current unemployment rate is above 7%. At the same time, 40% of the population is living below the poverty line.
The report says the country will need an economic growth rate of 6% to 8% to provide employment opportunities for young people. Pakistan’s current economic growth rate is only 3.5%.
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