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The Pakistan Gazette

Overpopulation in Pakistan; Causes Consequences and Solutions

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  • January 18, 2023
  • Overpopulation in Pakistan; Ca ...

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

Table of Contents

Pakistan is facing a population growth rate that is among the highest in the world. As of 2021, the population of Pakistan is estimated to be around 220 million, and it is projected to continue growing rapidly in the coming years. The country’s high population growth rate is driven by several factors, including a high fertility rate, a young population, and a lack of access to family planning services. Overpopulation in Pakistan has led to a number of challenges, such as increased competition for resources, overburdened infrastructure, and a strain on public services. The government of Pakistan has implemented several policies and programs to address these challenges, such as increasing access to family planning services and promoting education and economic development.

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

Causes of Overpopulation in Pakistan

The causes of overpopulation in Pakistan are complex and multifaceted. Some of the main factors include:

  • High fertility rate: Pakistan has a relatively high fertility rate of around 3.3 children per woman, which is significantly higher than the global average.
  • Lack of access to family planning services: Many people in Pakistan do not have access to family planning services, which makes it difficult for them to control the size of their families.
  • Cultural and religious beliefs: Some cultural and religious beliefs in Pakistan discourage the use of birth control, which can contribute to high fertility rates.
  • Poverty and lack of education: Poverty and lack of education are also major factors that contribute to high fertility rates in Pakistan. People who are poor or have limited education are less likely to have access to family planning services and may not have the knowledge or resources to control their fertility.
  • Urbanization: Urbanization has also led to overpopulation in Pakistan as people migrate to the cities for job opportunities and better living standards.
  • Political instability and lack of government action: Political instability and lack of government action in promoting family planning and education also play a role in overpopulation in Pakistan.

Consequences of Overpopulation in Pakistan

The consequences of overpopulation in Pakistan can be far-reaching and have a significant impact on the country’s social, economic, and environmental well-being. Some of the main consequences include:

  • Strain on resources: Overpopulation puts a strain on resources such as food, water, and energy, leading to shortages and higher prices.
  • Environmental degradation: Overpopulation can lead to environmental degradation, including deforestation, air and water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.
  • Overburdened infrastructure: Overpopulation can lead to overcrowding, which can put a strain on infrastructure such as roads, housing, and public transportation.
  • Economic challenges: Overpopulation can lead to increased competition for jobs, which can lead to higher unemployment rates and lower wages. It can also lead to a strain on public services, such as healthcare and education, which can make it more difficult for people to access these services.
  • Social challenges: Overpopulation can lead to increased crime, poverty, and social unrest. It can also put a strain on social services, such as housing and welfare programs, which can make it more difficult for people to access these services.
  • Health problems: Overpopulation can lead to poor living conditions and lack of access to healthcare, which can increase the risk of disease and illness.
  • Political instability: Overpopulation can lead to political instability, as the government may struggle to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population.

It is important for Pakistan to take action to address these consequences, such as promoting family planning and education, increasing access to resources, and promoting sustainable development.

Solutions of Overpopulation in Pakistan

There are several solutions that can be implemented to address the issue of overpopulation in Pakistan. Some of the main solutions include :

  • Promoting family planning and reproductive health: Increasing access to family planning services and providing education on reproductive health can help people to control the size of their families and reduce the rate of population growth.
  • Education and economic development: Investing in education and economic development can help to reduce poverty and improve the overall well-being of the population. This can also lead to a reduction in the fertility rate as people become more aware of family planning and have more resources to support smaller families.
  • Encourage urban planning: Encouraging urban planning and development can help to alleviate the strain on infrastructure and resources in urban areas. This can also help to improve living conditions and reduce overcrowding.
  • Improve living standards and access to resources: Improving living standards and access to resources such as housing, healthcare, and education can help to reduce poverty and improve overall well-being. This can also help to reduce the fertility rate.
  • Government policies: Government policies such as tax incentives for smaller families, and penalties for having more than a certain number of children, can also be implemented to help control population growth.
  • Promoting sustainable development: Encouraging sustainable development and environmental protection can help to reduce the strain on resources and protect the environment. This can also help to improve overall well-being and reduce the rate of population growth.

It’s important to note that a comprehensive and integrated approach is needed to address the issue of overpopulation in Pakistan, involving government, civil society, and international organizations.

Further Readings

Child Labour in Pakistan; Causes, Consequences and Solutions

Corruption in Pakistan; Causes, Consequences and Solutions

Unemployment in Pakistan; Causes, Consequences and Solutions

Poverty in Pakistan; Causes, Consequences, Solutions

Economic Challenges of Pakistan

Education System of Pakistan: Challenges and Way Forward

Pakistan Healthcare System Challenges and Solutions

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Population Growth: Implications for Human Development

September 2, 2019.

Pakistan is the sixth most populous country in the world with its population estimated at 207.8 million in 2017. Its population growth rate of 2.40 percent is the highest in South Asia and stands in sharp contrast to the 1.0–1.5 percent growth rate of other South Asian countries. Pakistan's population has increased by more than six-folds since the first post-independence census held in 1951. This massive growth in population possesses serious challenges for the country's socio-economic development.

The high growth in population could be attributed to a number of factors. Pakistan has the lowest contraceptive prevalence rate in South Asia, which has stagnated at 35 percent over the last couple of years. One in five married women in Pakistan are unable to access effective methods of family planning if they want to avoid pregnancy and plan the number and spacing of children. Low contraceptive prevalence may be further attributed to weak service delivery systems and markets and cultural norms.

Between 1993 to 1998, Pakistan ran a successful family planning programme which was instrumental in reducing fertility rates and increasing contraceptive prevalence. The key element of the programme was the recruitment of trained Lady Health Workers (LHW) to provide primary health care and family planning services to women at community level. The LHW were pivotal in expanding family planning services to the poor and educating them on the available methods. However, from 2000 onwards, successive governments' attention to family planning programmes started to reduce.

However, it is encouraging to note that population and family planning is now again getting space on the government's policy agenda. The Federal Government has constituted a Task Force on Population and Family Planning to develop a strategy for controlling population growth and guiding its implementation. The Task Force, headed by the Prime Minister which includes all provincial Chief Ministers as members, is working towards three key targets; increasing contraceptive prevalence rate to 55 percent, reducing fertility rate from 3.6 births per woman to 2.1, and decreasing population growth rate to 1.5 percent. Given the devolved governance structure in Pakistan, the inclusion of Chief Ministers in the Task Force is key to implementing a coordinated and comprehensive family planning programme.

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essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

Beyond the brink: Pakistan's population explosion

Us Pakistanis are a staggering 225 million people and counting … we’ll be more by the time you finish reading this.

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

A ticking time bomb of population growth threatens Pakistan, joining the league of the world's top five most populous countries, with a staggering 225 million people and counting. The repercussions are hitting hard, straining vital resources, crippling the economy, and overwhelming social infrastructure.

Understanding population growth in Pakistan

Pakistan's population has been experiencing exponential growth over the past few decades. Several factors contribute to this increase including: high birth rates, limited access to family planning services, cultural norms, and religious beliefs. According to the UN, Pakistan's population is projected to reach 403 million by 2050 if the current growth rate continues unchecked.

Population control in Bangladesh

Bangladesh, which shares a similar cultural and historical background with Pakistan, has managed to curb its population growth significantly.

Bangladesh faced a population crisis in the 1970s, with a high fertility rate and a rapidly growing population. The government recognised the need for immediate action and implemented various policies and programmes to address the issue. One of the landmark initiatives, launched in 1976, was the National Family Planning Programme. This programme aimed to provide accessible and affordable family planning services to couples across the country.

Through this initiative, Bangladesh emphasised the importance of family planning, educated the population about contraceptive methods, and made contraceptives readily available. Additionally, the government partnered with non-governmental organisations and community-based groups to create awareness and deliver family planning services effectively.

Design by : Ibrahim Yahya

Success stories and lessons for Pakistan

Bangladesh's efforts in population control have given rise to remarkable results. From a fertility rate of around 6.3 in the 1970s, the country has successfully reduced it to 2.1, as of the latest available data. This achievement is considered a significant milestone, as a fertility rate of 2.1 is considered the replacement level, where the population size stabilises.

To achieve such success, Bangladesh focused on empowering women and enhancing their access to education and healthcare, leading to an increase in women's participation in the workforce. Educated and empowered women are more likely to make informed decisions regarding family planning, leading to reduced birth rates.

Moreover, Bangladesh's efforts in improving healthcare and reducing child mortality also contributed to population control. When families have confidence in the survival of their children, they tend to have fewer children.

Furthermore, the contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) in Bangladesh is higher than that of Pakistan. CPR measures the percentage of married or in-union women aged 15 to 49 who are using, or whose sexual partner is using, any method of contraception. Bangladesh's CPR stands at 65.0%, while Pakistan's CPR is 34.1%. This substantial variation reflects the disparity in family planning services and awareness between the two countries.

Challenges Posed by Population Growth in Pakistan

Pakistan's rapid population growth has led to various challenges, including increased pressure on resources, inadequate healthcare facilities, and a strain on educational institutions ― overcrowded classrooms and insufficient resources hinder the delivery of quality education. The demand for food, water, housing, and energy has surged, leading to resource scarcity and environmental degradation.

The healthcare system faces difficulties in providing quality services to the growing population. Maternal and child mortality rates remain high, and the burden of disease has intensified.

Design by : Ibrahim Yahya

Causes of high population growth in Pakistan

Lack of family planning and birth control The lack of sufficient family planning and birth control measures stands as a significant factor contributing to the country's rapid population growth. A prevalent issue, particularly in rural areas, is the limited awareness and reluctance to adopt modern contraceptive methods. As a result, many families have larger numbers of children than they can adequately support. The absence of accessible family planning services and comprehensive education on reproductive health leads to unintended pregnancies and exacerbates the strain on resources, healthcare, and education systems. Empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about family planning will not only help curb the population growth but also improve the overall well-being and prosperity of Pakistan's communities.

High infant mortality rate: Historically, Pakistan has grappled with high infant mortality rates, primarily attributed to limited access to adequate healthcare and sanitation facilities. This unfortunate reality compelled families to have larger numbers of children, as they hoped some would survive to adulthood. While progress has been made in recent years to improve healthcare and reduce infant mortality, this past reality continues to influence population growth patterns. The fear of losing children at a young age still resonates with many families, leading to a preference for larger family sizes as a form of insurance against the uncertainties of infant survival. By ensuring better survival prospects for infants, Pakistan can gradually shift towards a more sustainable population growth trajectory.

Low literacy rate and education: The persistently low literacy rate, particularly among women, plays a significant role in driving higher population growth. The lack of access to education limits individuals' understanding of the importance of family planning and reproductive health. Educated individuals are more likely to comprehend the benefits of smaller family sizes, leading to informed decisions about family planning and birth control. However, the prevailing educational disparities, particularly in rural and marginalised communities, hinder the dissemination of crucial information about reproductive health and family planning. Empowering both men and women with education and knowledge is essential to breaking the cycle of high population growth. By investing in quality education, promoting gender equality, and advocating for comprehensive reproductive health education, Pakistan can pave the way for a more informed and empowered society, contributing to sustainable population management and overall development.

Social and cultural norms: Social and cultural norms have a profound impact on shaping reproductive behaviours, particularly in certain communities where having many children is seen as a symbol of prestige and family honor. These deep-rooted traditions often prioritise larger family sizes, perpetuating the notion that having numerous children signifies prosperity and social standing. Consequently, there is limited acceptance and understanding of family planning methods within these communities. Challenging these norms requires sensitively addressing cultural beliefs and engaging community leaders to promote awareness about the benefits of smaller family sizes and comprehensive family planning. Encouraging open dialogues about reproductive health and breaking the stigma surrounding birth control can empower individuals to make informed choices about their family size, contributing to a more sustainable population growth in Pakistan. By combining culturally sensitive approaches with education and advocacy, the nation can gradually shift away from excessive population growth and foster a society where reproductive decisions are based on informed choices rather than social pressures.

Religious beliefs and practices: In Pakistan, religious beliefs and practices play a significant role in influencing population growth. As a country where religion holds immense significance in the lives of its people, certain interpretations of religious teachings may encourage larger families. Some religious beliefs emphasise the importance of procreation and view children as a blessing and a source of divine favor. Consequently, these interpretations may contribute to a cultural preference for larger family sizes within religious communities. It is essential to recognise the sensitivity of religious beliefs and engage in constructive dialogues to promote understanding about family planning and reproductive health. By fostering a balanced approach that respects religious values while also advocating for informed reproductive choices, Pakistan can work towards addressing population growth in a way that is culturally respectful and sustainable. Education and awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in highlighting the importance of family planning and empowering individuals to make decisions that align with their religious beliefs and personal circumstances.

Design by : Ibrahim Yahya

Effects of high population growth

The rapid increase in population has various consequences for Pakistan:

Pressure on resources With expanding population, the demand for essential resources such as water, food, and energy has reached unprecedented levels, exerting immense strain on the country's already limited natural reserves. The growing needs of its people are putting a considerable burden on the infrastructure and the environment, threatening the sustainability and equilibrium of vital ecosystems.

Unemployment and poverty The challenge of high population growth exacerbates the pressing issues of unemployment and poverty. With a rapidly expanding workforce, the economy finds it increasingly difficult to generate enough jobs to accommodate the influx of job seekers. As a result, unemployment rates soar, leaving a significant portion of the population struggling to secure stable and dignified livelihoods. The lack of employment opportunities directly contributes to the persistence of poverty, trapping many individuals and families in a cycle of economic hardship.

Strain on healthcare and education The escalating population places considerable strain on the healthcare system and education infrastructure, posing significant challenges in providing essential services to all citizens. As the population expands, the demand for healthcare services increases, stretching the already limited resources and facilities to their limits. Access to quality healthcare becomes more difficult for many, particularly in remote and underserved areas, leading to disparities in healthcare outcomes. Similarly, the education sector faces similar challenges, with a surge in the number of students overwhelming schools and colleges. As a result, maintaining the standard of education becomes a daunting task, hindering the country's ability to provide equal educational opportunities to all.

Environmental impact The mounting population has significant environmental implications, giving rise to increased waste generation and pollution, which, in turn, exacerbates environmental degradation and contributes to the effects of climate change. With more people producing waste and demanding resources, the pressure on natural ecosystems intensifies. Improper waste management practices strain the environment, as landfills overflow and pollution contaminate air, water, and soil.

The accelerated pace of urbanisation further encroaches on green spaces and exacerbates deforestation, threatening biodiversity and ecological balance. Moreover, the escalating emissions from industries, transportation, and energy consumption contribute to climate change, resulting in extreme weather events, erratic rainfall patterns, and rising temperatures. Addressing these environmental challenges requires a concerted effort from the government, industries, and individuals to adopt sustainable practices, promote renewable energy, implement effective waste management systems, and foster environmental awareness and conservation efforts to safeguard Pakistan's natural heritage for future generations.

Design by : Ibrahim Yahya

Policies to counteract underlying causes of high population growth in Pakistan

Family planning and awareness programmes: To control population growth effectively, Pakistan must prioritize family planning and create awareness about its benefits. Family planning allows individuals to make informed choices regarding the number and spacing of their children, leading to healthier and more sustainable families.

Educational campaigns on family planning, contraception, and reproductive health should be promoted through various media platforms and community outreach programs. Engaging religious leaders and influencers in these campaigns can help dispel misconceptions and myths surrounding family planning methods.

Women empowerment and reproductive rights: When women are educated, financially independent, and have access to reproductive healthcare, they can make informed decisions about their reproductive choices. Investing in women's education and healthcare is an investment in the future of the country. Furthermore, ensuring women's reproductive rights is essential for population control. Women should have the right to decide when and how many children they want to have, empowering them to break free from traditional norms and achieve their aspirations.

Healthcare and child mortality: Pakistan must invest in improving healthcare infrastructure, ensuring access to quality healthcare services for all citizens, especially in rural areas. Reducing child mortality rates is directly linked to population control. When families are assured of their children's survival, they are more likely to have fewer children. Pakistan can learn from Bangladesh's successful efforts in reducing child mortality and implement similar strategies to achieve positive outcomes.

Economic implications of population growth: Population growth has significant economic implications for Pakistan. A rapidly growing population poses challenges to economic development, as the demand for jobs and resources increases. Investing in education, skill development, and job creation is essential to harnessing the demographic dividend.

Urbanisation and rural development: Balancing urban and rural development is crucial to controlling population growth. Providing adequate opportunities and facilities in rural areas can discourage mass migration to urban centers. This balanced approach ensures that resources are distributed more equitably, leading to a more stable population growth pattern.

The take home

Knowledge holds the key to recognising the severity of Pakistan's population challenge and aiding the government in tackling this critical issue. Women's empowerment emerges as a potent force in curbing population growth rates, while raising literacy levels is crucial to achieving our population control goals. Singapore and China's successful adoption of two-child and one-child policies offer valuable lessons. To combat poverty, disparity, and other pressing problems, Pakistan must prioritise population regulation as the initial step. Meaningful discussions on family planning are imperative. Our resources are depleting, cities overcrowded and polluted, and the environment deteriorating. Pakistan's multiple woes, from poverty to climate change, are exacerbated by unchecked population growth. We must act now to unlock Pakistan's potential and address the social and economic challenges that lie ahead.

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Issue Brief on “Pakistan’s Rising Population Crisis”

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Population growth has always been a central point of concern for many. While many believe  that the high population is an asset for Pakistan, unfortunately this is a far stretch from reality. Today, in the 21 st century, Pakistan and a handful of its neighbours are the core states under risk of the fallouts of overpopulation. Amongst these are climate change, food scarcity, and insufficient energy and resources.

At the time of its independence, Pakistan had a population of 31 million. However, by the year 1995 the number had risen at a staggering speed and reached 140 million. [1] Presently, Pakistan has a population size of 225,199,929 with a growth rate of 1.9%. [2] The United Nations has predicted that at this rate Pakistan will hit the 380 million marker by 2050. [3]

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The Overpopulation Crisis in Pakistan: Impacts, Causes, and Suggestions

The Overpopulation Crisis in Pakistan: Impacts, Causes, and Suggestions

  • Zehra Ramzan
  • November 16, 2021
  • CSS , CSS Essays , CSS Solved Pakistan Affairs , Current Affairs , Over-population , Pakistan's Domestic Affairs , Pakistani Society , PMS , PMS Essays , Socio-economic problems
  • 41971 Views

Pakistan faces a major socio-economic predicament due to a rapidly growing population caused by illiteracy, unemployment, patriarchal societal patterns, inept leadership, lack of proper awareness about birth control methods, etc. To circumscribe the overpopulation crisis prevalent in the country, pragmatic and result-driven designated steps ensuring improvement in the literacy rate, employment opportunities for youth, prohibition on child labour practices, efficient family planning programs, etc., are a must.

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

1. Introduction

Pakistan faces a major socio-economic predicament due to a rapidly growing population caused by illiteracy, unemployment, patriarchal societal patterns, inept leadership, lack of proper awareness about birth control methods, etc. To circumscribe the overpopulation crisis prevalent in the country, pragmatic and result-driven designated steps ensuring improvement in the literacy rate, employment opportunities for youth, prohibition on child labour practices, efficient family planning programs, etc., are a must. 

2. Current Situation

  • The current growth rate of the country is close to two per cent (2%)
  • Nearly sixty per cent of people are under the age of thirty
  • The population of the country is expected to rise to four hundred million by 2050

3. Impacts of the overpopulation crisis

  • Lowering the living standard 
  • Giving rise to unemployment
  • Perpetuating the cycle of poverty
  • Exhausting natural resources 
  • Destroying country’s economy
  • Increasing dependence on foreign aids
  • The breeding dichotomy between classes
  • Leading to degradation of the environment 
  • The emerging water crisis in the country
  •  Hindering agricultural development

4. Causes of the overpopulation crisis

  • The poverty in the country
  • High Illiteracy rate 
  • A patriarchal society
  • A lack of awareness regarding birth-control
  • The high immigrant ratio in the country
  • Unemployment and lack of recreational activities
  • Conservatism and misinterpretation of religious principles 
  • Technological advancements resulting in other related factors
  • Polygamy 
  • Government’s inefficient policies 

5. Suggestions to curb the overpopulation crisis

  • To introduce effective family planning programs 
  • To empower women through education
  • To remove the barriers to birth-control
  • To put restrictions on child marriages 
  • To make improvements in the health sector
  • To restraint child labour
  • To focus on poverty reduction policies 
  • To introduce a proper management system for immigrants and refugees
  • To encourage the positive role of scholars to propagate the true teachings of Islam
  •  To make contraception available and accessible for all

6. Critical Analysis 7. Conclusion

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

Introduction

The persistent rise in population, undoubtedly posing a severe challenge to the country’s socio-economic development and advancement, has wreaked havoc on Pakistan’s economic stability and growth. The alarming increase in population causes a considerable strain on the existing resources of the economy. Being a developing country, Pakistan faces a significant social, political, and economic predicament due to the uncontrolled population growth rate. According to the current estimates, Pakistan is the fifth most populous country, with its population estimated at 220.9 million in 2020, pinpointing the fact that the population of the country has increased by more than six-fold since the first post-independence census held in 1951. Accordingly, the unchecked growth of the population needs drastic measures and actions to circumvent its unprecedented expansion. In Third World countries like Pakistan, overpopulation amplifies and afflicts profound suffering to the well-being of people. Therefore, addressing the issue of population explosion and tackling its resultant effects is the immense need of the hour.

The overpopulation crisis has led the country to the brink of an economic explosion. Unsurprisingly, the severity of the issue is taking its foothold with significant negative consequences. According to the recent report, the current growth rate of the population is close to two per cent (2%), making Pakistan have the highest birth rate in South Asia after India, i.e., twenty-two births per thousand people. In contrast, the death rate stands at 7.228 per 1000. According to the United Nations report, due to the high birth rate, its population is expected to rise to 400 million by 2050, doubling its current number. Ironically, the situation has constantly been pulling the country’s youth into the vortex of unemployment, as the people of Pakistan under the age of thirty are about 60 per cent (60%).

Although the repercussions of overpopulation have always been threatening for a developing country, the way the crisis has started impacting Pakistan is scarier. Following are the major impacts, highlighting the severity of the problem in the country. 

It is a fact that the standard of living is determined by the per capita income and the economic growth of a country. However, in the present world, the population explosion overpowers every other crisis, particularly in underdeveloped countries; in consequence, it gives rise to an increase in demands for basic provisions of life: food commodities, shelters, and clothes, etc. With the immense population growth, it becomes an arduous task for such a country to create equilibrium in society. Similarly, in Pakistan, an economically struggling nation, the crisis disturbs the standard of life by jolting the demand and supply mechanism. Grievously, the supply cannot be increased due to the lack of cooperating factors: skilled labour, job opportunities, good governance. Further, Pakistan, being an underdeveloped country, faces inflation, which, in turn, increases the cost of living of the people. As per statistics of Trading Economics Global Macro Models, the inflation rate in the country is expected to reach eight percent (8%) by the end of 2021. On the one hand, fewer resources, less drinking water, unmanaged urbanization, and unemployment provoke an increase in the cost of living; on the other hand, only a number of people can fulfil their needs to survive. Hence, population growth curtails the standard of living, but checking population growth can lead to a more balanced society. As aptly said by Dr Umbreen Javaid,

“Growing population size is decreasing the standard of living.” Dr Umbreen Javaid

Moreover, overpopulation severely affects a country by destroying its socio-economic fabric. When an underdeveloped country fails to handle and manage the crises, it, ultimately, seeks help from other countries. Similarly, Pakistan has to depend upon foreign organizations to run its affairs. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, the country’s external debt has reached 116.3 billion (USD) in Mar 2021, an increase of nearly one percent from the previous year. Although the aid fills the investment gap and increases productivity, it is observed that foreign aid does not benefit the country significantly because it is apparent from the dreadful situation of communal sectors, including health care, employment, and education, etc. Moreover, the funding is not interest-free; therefore, it crushes the backbone of an already stagnant economy. Thus, from the above arguments, it can be said that the overpopulation crisis handicaps a country both economically and socially.

Besides that, high population growth seems to be a major contributor to the vicious cycle of poverty in developing economies. People are compelled to spend a significant portion of their income, whatever they earn, on the upbringing of their children. As a result, in Pakistan, savings and capital formation rates remain low, which gives rise to poverty. As per the World Bank estimates, based on the lower-middle-income poverty rate, Pakistan’s poverty rate is 39.3 percent in 2020-21 and is expected to be the same in 2021-22. Furthermore, the decrease in per capita income and increase in the overall price level result in a significant increase in the cost of living, encapsulating the country with poverty. Hence, to curb the menace of poverty, the government must take steps to make improvements in the agricultural and industrial sectors to reduce the shortage of essential commodities, improve the standard of living, and find solutions for mass unemployment. As Ishrat Hussain says,

“The rapid growth of the population is accounting for poverty.” Ishrat Hussain

In addition, the overpopulation crisis in Pakistan is the root cause of the emerging water shortage in the country. The global water crisis report of the United Nations (UN) has placed Pakistan in the fourteenth position among the countries facing extreme water scarcity. Rising population, along with rapid urbanization and climate change, is the cause of the widening gap between water availability and water requirement. In addition, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has placed Pakistan in the third position among the countries facing acute water shortages. Around 80 percent of the people living in 24 major cities of Pakistan do not have access to clean drinking water; in the slums of Karachi, 16 million do not have access to safe drinking water. Thus, the water crisis is a severe consequence of overpopulation in Pakistan, which is to put the country on the verge of an extremely disastrous situation.

Similarly, an explosion in population gives rise to the large number of people coming to the labour market; however, an economically struggling country cannot provide employment to all. As a matter of fact, despite all endeavours towards strategic developments, it is not feasible to employ everyone because the number of job seekers expands exponentially. Likewise, in Pakistan, disguised employment, unemployment, and underemployment are common elements overshadowing the country. As per Statista research, in September 2021, the national unemployment rate is projected at 4.8 percent, and the unemployment rate increases every day. Nearly seven hundred thousand people are unemployed. As a result, the alarming rate of unemployed men and women contributes to rising crimes and social unrest. Therefore, the government must devise policies and introduce a wide range of employment opportunities and, above all, manage the population explosion crisis efficaciously to get rid of the menace. As Andrés Velasco, correctly, states,

“An increase in the size of the population is giving rise to unemployment in a country.” Andrés Velasco

Furthermore, the population explosion affects the per capita income of a country. The high growth rate lowers the per capita income; however, if it is up to the income optimizing level, it increases the same. Accordingly, the economic growth rises, if the rate of population growth is less than the per capita income of the country; whereas, when the population rate exceeds the level of economic growth, mostly observed in the developing nations, per capita income falls. In the same way, being a developing country, Pakistani society faces a downfall in the economy due to the population crisis. As per a research published in the Journal of Economics, a one percent increase in population degrades GDP by 0.33 percent. For instance, food scarcity, caused due to overpopulation and other factors, affects economic development in many aspects. To begin with, a lack of food leads to undernourishment, which reduces people’s productivity. Further, they are forced to import agricultural goods due to a lack of food, putting pressure on their foreign exchange reserves. Hence, the impacts of overpopulation are intertwined and correlated that can be minimized by good governance and pragmatic policies.

In addition, the unequal and unrestricted use of natural resources is another undesirable and detrimental effect of overpopulation. The planet’s capacity to produce raw materials is limited and finite, and the natural deficit, the utilization of resources at a higher rate than the planet’s ability to generate them, approaches earlier each year. Thus, Pakistan, along with other external and internal threats, encounters the shortage and depletion of natural resources. For example, water is a natural resource; however, due to the high population growth rate, only thirty-six percent of the population has access to safe water, a problem likely to get worse in the coming years, as per some authoritative reports. Therefore, the government of Pakistan must make and implement policies to manage resources and create a balance in society. John Muir, the Naturalist and Writer, says,

“Expanding the size of the population is depleting the natural deposits of the world.” John Muir, the Naturalist and Writer

Likewise, in poorly developed countries, most of the people live in rural areas, and they rely on agriculture for their living. But when the rate of population increases, the land-man ratio is disturbed. Likewise, in Pakistan, the rural population is reported at 62.84 percent in 2020, according to the World Bank collection. Accordingly, when the number of masses increases, the per capita availability of land for cultivation declines. As a result, this leads to unemployment and underemployment in the agriculture sector. Moreover, when the population rises, the agricultural land is used to build and develop houses, factories, hospitals, educational institutions, and highways; consequently, the proportion of area available for farming reduces. Thus, the population growth, at an exponential rate, hampers agricultural development and creates many other problems.

Also, overpopulation breeds dichotomy and contempt between the rich and poor. In the world of hustle and competition, everyone desires to lead others and wishes to have a successful life. However, the growing population gives rise to the scarcity of resources, which, in turn, puts a burden on the country’s economy, and a sense of deprivation prevails in the minds of the poor. The non-fulfilment of basic needs propels the poor towards rebellion and criminal activities. Antagonism and conflict arise due to population rise and competition; individualism, the prevalence of self-centred goals and objectives, weakens the solidarity and harmony in society. Hence, one can say that the overpopulation crisis weakens the unity among the people of a nation. As Edward Abbey says,

“A crowded society is a restrictive society; an overcrowded society becomes an authoritarian, repressive and murderous society.” Edward Abbey

Last but not least, the implication of overpopulation can also be seen in the environment. A colossal population affects the environment in two ways. First, the more the people, the rapid the consumption of natural resources, such as land, water, fossil fuels, and minerals; second, the swift the consumption, the more the waste produced, such as air and water pollutants, toxic industrial surplus, climate change, and the release of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. In other words, it can be stated that the population explosion in the country accounts for overconsumption of resources; in consequence, the depletion of natural assets takes place, which, in turn, is to degrade the environment by putting extreme strain on both the renewable and non-renewable deposits. As aptly said by Jacques Yves Cousteau,

“Population growth is the primary source of environmental damage.” Jacques Yves Cousteau

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

There are many factors calling forth the population explosion in Pakistan. First, the role of illiteracy is the cardinal one in this regard. Unless the women are literate, no excessive child-birth control methods and policies can work out. Unfortunately, the education stats from the Economic Survey of Pakistan, conducted in 2017-2018, show that the literacy rate for women in the country is 48 percent, and, for men, it is 70 percent. Keeping in view the fact that education has strong links with the fertility rate of women, the situation becomes grave for the country. A well-educated, learned, informed woman is more receptive to family planning services and other birth control measures than an illiterate, unlearned, unaware woman. Thus, the poor state of women’s education in the country is one of the main culprits behind the high population growth rate. As perfectly said by Akbar Zaidi,

“Overlooking a woman’s education is giving rise to birth rates and population growth.” Akbar Zaidi

Second, poverty is also a leading cause of overpopulation. According to the report launched by the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Reform, nearly thirty-nine percent of people of Pakistan live in multidimensional poverty, the deprivations people experience based on health, education, and standard of living, with FATA and Balochistan having the highest rates of poverty.

Due to the lack of resources and fundamental provisions of life, the poor aspire for more children than the rich because they consider them means of employment. Judith Blake elaborates the fact eloquently; she says: ‘Those in the lowest economic status group desire a large family. This is so because children are regarded as economic assets and security in old age, even though it will mean more mouths to be fed.’ Thus, due to the financial debacle, many families keep adding more children in order to have more helping hands to get them out of poverty. As it is aptly said by Dr Hafeez Pasha,

“Living in poverty is bringing up the overpopulation crisis in a country.” Dr Hafeez Pasha

Third, the patriarchal society adds insult to injury. Although the country has progressed in nearly all fields, a lot of work still has to be done to break the shackles of patriarchy. In most parts of the country, men still dominate women. Ironically, women, who bear the brunt of childbirth, have no say in this regard; whereas, men, who do not even have to go through the cumbersome period of pre-and post-pregnancy, decide how many children they want. Moreover, the never-ending desire for maximum male children also results in excessive childbirths because girls are still not welcomed in many parts of the country. As Prof. Dr Amra Raza says,

“Controlling women and their environment is keeping birth rates high.” Prof. Dr Amra Raza

Fourth, the lack of awareness about excessive childbirth prevention methods is another reason for the monster’s rapid propagation in the country. According to World Health Indicators 2015, Pakistan has a contraceptive use rate of thirty-five percent, the lowest among all its neighbouring countries. One of the principal reasons behind the low CPR is that there is a lot of ambiguity and misconception about contraceptive use and other modern birth control methods. Some people think such treatments make women infertile for good, and others believe these measures cause damage to the recipient. Due to the above-mentioned reasons, women hesitate to undergo any such procedures; as a result, the population growth rate continues to increase. As correctly said by Akbar Zaidi,

“Lacking guidance about birth control measures is calling forth human explosion.” Akbar Zaidi

Fifth, immigration is also a glaring cause of overpopulation in Pakistan. According to UNHCR, the country, at present, hosts nearly 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees despite the tough socio-economic challenges it comes across, which adds up to the population of an already overpopulated country. As a result, the government remains unable to fulfil the necessities of people. In addition, most of the country’s funds are ploughed back to run the affairs of the state with a galloping population; in consequence, a little is left to be spent on its development. Because the country consumes more and saves less due to more people and scarce resources, improving the economy becomes a big hurdle for the government. As Ishrat Hussain, correctly, states,

“Adding up immigrants is fueling the high population growth rate.” Ishrat Hussain

Sixth, conservatism and misinterpretation of religious principles give impetus to the population explosion in Pakistan. Dogmatic and narrow-minded mullahs consider birth control measures against the spirit of Islam. Although Islam is the only religion that has universality, and teachings of Islam are for the needs of people of all the times and places of the world, people tend to interpret Islamic doctrines according to their self-interests. People in Pakistan, especially males, vindicate multiple marriages as a right the religion (Islam) has given to them; however, they do not give ample consideration to the limitations Islam has set for them. Hence, it can be said that a lack of apt elucidation of religious teachings gives rise to the increasing population of the country.

Seventh, unemployment and lack of recreational activities in the country add fuel to the fire. Currently, the number of unemployed people in the country has reached about 6.65 million during the fiscal year 2020-21. Pakistan, being an underdeveloped country, does not have many resources to provide people with business and creative opportunities; impoverished people, deprived of their fundamental provisions of life, give birth to more children so that they can have more earning hands. With scarce resources, people live from hand to mouth. In such a situation where they are lacking their basic necessities, chances of any recreational or enjoyment activities are at a premium. They spend most of their time at home; their life partner is the only source of enjoyment for them. As a result of their companionship, the population growth of the country further increases. As Akbar Zaidi, correctly, says,

“If we have the problem of overpopulation and unemployment at the same time, then things do not add up.”  Akbar Zaidi

Eighth, polygamy, having more than one wife at a time, contributes to exponential population growth. One of the commonly held beliefs among Muslims is that God has given the right of polygamy to men; moreover, polygamy is legally permissible in Pakistan, according to the family law of 1961, but it is restricted to some obligations and legal regulations. Pakistan’s family law requires written permission from the first wife to marry again; furthermore, Islam allows multiple marriages to men only if they can be just to each of the women in their partnership. However, many men overlook these obligations, and many women are unaware of their fundamental legal rights. Besides this, polygamists, especially the religious ones, take pride in having a large family; consequently, the prevalent culture of multiple marriages causes an increase in the birth rate and plays a crucial role in population growth in Pakistan. 

Ninth, technological advances, enhancing the efficiency of the health sector, have further aggravated the situation. Medical facilities have resulted in an increase in birth rates, coupled with a decline in the death ratio. Besides this, the fertility of women is improved, and the infant mortality rate is reduced; consequently, the number of children born per day surpasses the number of children who die, which further puts a burden on the already exponentially rising population. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the number of births per day in Pakistan is nearly sixteen thousand, while the number of deaths per day is approximately four thousand; as a result, a huge difference in population occurs with each passing day. Moreover, there is an exponential growth in life expectancy of both men and women, increasing from 58.54 in 1985 to 67.24 in 2019, according to World Bank reports. Besides this, progress in the field of medical sciences has improved the fertility rate of women, which supports high birth rates. Hence, it can be said that technological innovations have played a crucial role in the rapid growth of the population.

Last, the government’s inefficiency and exiguous policy measures are also the sources of the population explosion in the country. No efficacious steps have been taken by the government to curb the increasing population growth rate in the country. Censuses are conducted after a very long time, showing the neglectful attitude of the authorities towards the crisis. Moreover, no implementation of effective policies to hold back the exponential population growth and create consciousness among the general public exist in the country. Resultantly, Pakistan’s population, nearly 220 million at present, is likely to increase to 245 million by 2030. Pope Benedict XVI says,

“Every state has the primary duty to protect its own population from grave and sustained violations of human rights, as well as, from the consequences of humanitarian crises, whether natural or man-made.”  Pope Benedict XVI

As every problem has some solutions, the crisis of population explosion can be circumscribed through efficacious measures. First and foremost, there is a need for an efficient family planning program. One of the cardinal reasons for the failure of the government to reduce the fertility rate in Pakistan has been the lack of an inclusive family planning program. The program should not merely focus on birth control, but it must include planning to improve access to contraceptives and other supplies. In this regard, Pakistan should follow the example of Iran, which, during the 1980s, has provided the supplies and counselling at the doorsteps of people and has effectively reduced its fertility rate from 5 births per woman in the 1980s to 2 in the 1990s. In this way, Pakistan can also make its family planning program more effective.

Moreover, empowering women through education and employment can act as a catalyst in reducing the fertility rate in Pakistan. Illiterate and financially dependent women are unlikely to make decisions for the life of their own or their children. It has been proved through studies that women’s literacy rate is inversely related to their fertility rate. Educated women want fewer children. Moreover, awareness brought by education also decreases the preference for the male child, further diminishing a cause of the increasing population. Therefore, the government of Pakistan should take serious measures for improving female literacy by removing the physical and financial barriers to their access to education. Special focus must be given to the inclusion of more women in the workforce. Hence, empowered women are to bring the desired change in Pakistan. Bill Gates, perfectly, says,

“By improving health, empowering women, population growth comes down.” Bill Gates

Similarly, the usage of modern contraceptives is the dire need to control overpopulation. Contraceptives should be cheap and in reach of all and sundry. They should be available even in remote areas. North America is the only continent where the pill is subsidized everywhere. Despite a financial crisis and a sharp increase in contraceptive prices between 1998 and 2008, Indonesian birth control use rates remained stable. Comparative studies of six African countries stated that the abortion rate increased when access to contraceptives decreased. Therefore, the government should minimize the price of contraceptives so that excessive childbirth in the country can be controlled.

Besides that, practical steps should be taken to remove the social, cultural, and normative barriers to birth control. Most people in Pakistan are reluctant to go for family planning due to their rigid norms and religious beliefs. Acceptance of family planning is a psychological factor that must be dealt with in a similar manner. The awareness programs must include male participation in counselling teams with a focus on changing the mentality that prevents women from birth control. The counselling can also help reduce the fear of side effects by providing people general awareness about their use and effects. Moreover, religious literature can also contribute to changing the beliefs of the people. Special fatwas by ulema in favour of family planning is to help in reducing the misconceptions about family planning. As it is aptly said, “ The change in mindset is a prerequisite for social development.”

Adding more to it, well-educated and erudite scholars can help eliminate the menace of overpopulation. As scholars have thousands of followers, they can rightly expose those so-called mullahs who misguide people by misinterpreting religious teachings and consider family planning an illegal practice. Having a conservative approach towards life, they ask people to avoid birth control practices. They openly declare that the usage of contraceptives is against Islam. Unfortunately, they have forgotten that Islam embraces change, and the doors of Ijtihad are always open in Islam. Therefore, scholars should play their part in propagating the right teachings of Islam.

Another way the population explosion in the country can be circumscribed is through restrictions on child marriages. Surprisingly, early marriage is not just prevalent in Pakistan; it affects millions of children globally. As per the latest UNICEF report, nearly twenty-one percent (21%) of women have been married before the age of eighteen, and around twelve million girls aged under eighteen become child brides each year. In addition to other implications of child marriage, early pregnancy is one of the most critical and harsh repercussions of the ill practice. Therefore, strict implementation of laws prohibiting marriage before eighteen is mandatory because to stop children from becoming victims of forced marriages is to curb the overpopulation crisis. Naeem Mirza, a women’s rights campaigner, says,

“To stop child marriages is to stop a country plunging into a population explosion crisis.” Naeem Mirza, a women’s rights campaigner

In the long run, poverty reduction must be a focus of the policymakers. A reduction in poverty is to reduce the population growth rate. According to studies, the living standard of people has an inverse relationship with the size of their families. People having a satisfactory living standard are likely to be more concerned about their future and have a planned family. On the other hand, poor people who struggle to put food on the table do not care about family planning. Therefore, the government must plan both long and short-term poverty reduction strategies with a special focus on those living below the poverty line. 

Furthermore, almost everyone is aware that child labour practices are widespread in the country, and such activities give impetus to the high population growth rate. According to Pakistan’s National Child Labour Survey (1996), among the 40 million children aged between five to fifteen years, about 3.3 million are involved in economic activity. More often than not, poor parents add more members to their family because they believe their children can help them get out of poverty. Such children are never sent to schools, and their childhood is spent making ends meet. Therefore, in order to blow over the overpopulation crisis, restrictions must be imposed on child work. If the government takes strict action against those who employ children, it can save the future of many children and control the high population growth rate issue as well. Dr Umbreen Javaid aptly says,

“To discourage child labour is to bring down the high birth rate.” Dr Umbreen Javaid

Likewise, immigrants and refugees contribute to the population growth of a country. They not only occupy the land but also utilize resources, seek jobs, and become a part of a country. Correspondingly, Pakistan has hosted one of the world’s largest refugee populations since 1980. According to the Migration Data Portal, Pakistan has the world’s fifth-largest refugee population, with over two million registered refugees. Hence, to limit the crisis, the government must formulate inept policies and introduce a proper management system for people gaining shelter in the country. As David R. Brower says,

“Overpopulation is perhaps the biggest problem facing us, and immigration is part of that problem. It has to be addressed.” David R. Brower

Also, overpopulation leads to more exposure and communication between humans and elevates hunger and undernourishment. Moreover, the young, elderly, and reproductive age population need specialized health care. Being a developing country, Pakistan is currently in a phase where the absolute numbers in each age category make providing healthcare a daunting task. There are facilities focusing on the health needs of mother and child, but not a single facility exists in the country that offers specialized geriatric care. Moreover, evidence suggests that taking care of maternal-child health is to have a direct effect on lowering fertility rates. Therefore, improving health services for all, especially children, the elderly, and women of reproductive age, can help create a better environment. As it is aptly said by Albert Einstein,

“Overpopulation in various countries has become a serious threat to the health of people and a grave obstacle to any attempt to organize peace on this planet.” Albert Einstein

Undoubtedly, the rapid rise in the population has become a daunting challenge for the economy of Pakistan. It is a matter of fact the government has turned a blind eye to address the severity of the issue. Unfortunately, Pakistan is one of the oldest countries that has not made any substantial progress in addressing the issue of high population growth. Failure on the part of the government to implement population planning policies is a major reason leading to unchecked population growth. Knowingly, Pakistan always remains the most vulnerable when it comes to the implementation of the policy process. Thus, the consistent rise of the population of Pakistan is nothing short of a ticking bomb engulfing the whole country. 

In a nutshell, the alarming rise in population is a significant concern that must be addressed immediately. Pakistan is home to dynamic and diverse people residing across different societies. In this regard, rational and pragmatic actions are needed to slow down its growth. In this instance, Pakistan’s crucial challenge is how effectively it can formulate and implement policies to mitigate the unlikely effects of overpopulation. A government has a pivotal role to play in subsiding the threat of it. Undoubtedly, a successful population control policy can be conducive to dealing with the population explosion in the country. The result of such policy, in turn, leads to better employment opportunities, economic stability, improved security, which contributes to the growth and prosperity of the nation.

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Essay on “Population explosion in Pakistan” for CSS, PMS, and All Judiciary Examinations

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  • November 21, 2021
  • Essay for CSS PMS and Judiciary Exam

This is an essay on “Population explosion in Pakistan” for CSS, PMS, and All Judiciary examinations. Increasing Population is a serious issue in today’s modern world. It can result from an increase in births, a decline in the mortality rate, an increase in immigration, or a depletion of resources. So here is a complete essay on the topic of “population explosion in Pakistan” for CSS, PMS, and All Judiciary Examinations.

In this essay, you will learn about the causes of the Population explosion in Pakistan, the effects of population, and various measures to stop population.

Essay on “Population Explosion in Pakistan”

Population in the world.

Conditions in Pakistan

Population table

Better medical facility

Lack of education, lack of planning of the government as per the resources, the desire for a male child, early marriages, abundant food resources, effect on economic growth.

  • Problems in urban cities like Karachi

Effect on agriculture

Urbanization, social evils, role of media, role of a religious scholar, education for all, resources as well as population.

  • Chinese model

Essay on “Population explosion in Pakistan” for CSS, PMS, and All Judiciary Examinations

Conditions in pakistan and population table.

At the time of partition, the area, which today comprises Pakistan, had a population of 33 million. The following table shows the population of Pakistan at different times since its inception.

According to experts, under the same growth rate, the population of Pakistan would be greater than that of China by the year 2035.

Even after sixty-four years of its independence, Pakistan is still struggling to find a respectable place in the comity of nations. All the efforts made in the past seem to have gone in vain. Every sector of life today tells a sorry tale. The problem that could be blamed for all this sorry mess is overpopulation in the country. Overpopulation emerges as the main villain in Pakistan for a number of reasons. Every other problem mentioned earlier seems to have grown from the. demon of this overpopulation.

Literally speaking, overpopulation arises when the resources in a country fall short of meeting the needs of its people. A number of factors could lead to the emergence of overpopulation. Birth rate 1s the most common indicator that the countries today use to keep a check on population. Pakistan today suffers from a high birth rate in the country. But the birth rate was high even in the past and still, overpopulation was nowhere to be seen. What factors today have translated the high birth rate into overpopulation? The advancements in the medical field have led to a sharp decline in the death rate.

The life expectancy has increased due to the use of imported health technologies. So, a decline in the death rate has in other words led to the problem of overpopulation. Pakistan is a developing country and like many others like it is trying hard to survive in the capitalist world. A huge population of around eighteen crores, that could have been an asset to the country is today a huge liability. Fast increasing population is thus a source of constant danger for Pakistan .

Following is a brief discussion of some of the causes of overpopulation in our country:

  • Warm climate (puberty attained by females at an early age)
  • Joint family systems
  • Lack of recreational facilities
  • The belief that God is ‘Raziq’ (the belief that every child brings its food with him/her)
  • Love for male issues (couple going for more babies)
  • Illiteracy, people think that more children mean more working hands

There are three main causes of overpopulation. The first and second are linked to the advancement of medicine and public health, while the third is related to food distribution. Even though these are the main causes today, more causes can come about in the future.

First is the understanding of diseases and the use of medicine. Before the realization of the germ theory, many individuals did not know that diseases were spread through germs such as bacteria and viruses. With the adoption of these practices, humans were able to understand that germs caused these diseases and could be countered through practices such as medicine and vaccinations. With this new knowledge, death rates plummeted and new health practices relating to child birth helped improve birth rates.

Illiteracy is another important cause of overpopulation. That lacking education fails to understand the need to prevent excessive growth of population. They are unable to understand the harmful effects that overpopulation has. They are unaware of the ways to control the population. Lack of family planning is commonly seen in the illiterate lot of the world. This is one of the major factors leading to overpopulation. Due to ignorance, they do not take to family planning measures, thus contributing to a rise in population.

In Pakistan rural areas there is a trend of a large number of families and due to lack of awareness and proper knowledge people go on producing more and more children. So this trend could be changed if education will be provided to all members of society.

We think that we are progressing and adopting new values and trends but this is really not true and this is a fact that parents prefer boys over girls and consider their son as their future asserts. Who can support them later in life? So the desire for a male child is also the main reason for population growth in a society like Pakistan. So if we want to control the rising population so we should consider boys and girls like the same and value them. If this thing will be included in our thinking that girls also support their parents so this will discourage the practice of producing more and more children just for the desire of the male child.

Early marriage is also the main reason for the increase in population growth. As soon the girl grows parents start thinking about their marriages and when they find the reasonable proposal for them so they are in a hurry that they should get married and leave their education. Early marriages really contribute to rising in population growth and if we want to control it then early marriages should be avoided and education can help in delaying the age of marriage of the girls.

Next is the vast improvement of public health. Public health refers to the acquisition of three basic needs humans need: food, shelter, and water. For example, since the creation of plumbing, individuals have had the opportunity of accessing water. Another is the improvement of shelters which also allow humans to survive for longer periods.

Another is the improvement of food distribution. It is amazing to think that food can be transported all over the world and combined with preservation services, such as canned food, certain food can last forever. The improvement of food distribution bad ended the worries of starvation in many regions of the world; however, certain regions (such as parts of Africa) still exhibit famines from the lack of food.

Now let’s talk about some severe effects of population:

Overpopulation has badly hampered the economic growth in the country. The high population is responsible for a decline in per capita income. This leads to a decline in the 9urchasing power of the people. As the demand for goods decreases then “Demand & Supply” lack the investment in the country will also suffer. Such a stagnant economy will lead to the closing of factories and businesses and in return add to joblessness and poverty.

Even if the country somehow is successful in attracting foreign investment, still overpopulation will not allow these investments to have a positive effect on the country’s economy. A greater population means more hungry souls to feed. With the number of productive earning members in a family small compared to unproductive members, there is felt a drag on the limited income of poor families. This is the problem of the “Dependency ratio” which is acutely felt in poor countries.

For years, social services in the country have suffered even after sincere efforts by successive governments. The fact remains that more schools, hospitals, and parks are of little comfort if the the population keeps on increasing at an alarming rate.

Agriculture is another sector, which has been adversely affected by the rapid increase in population. About 70% of Pakistan’s population is employed in the agricultural sector. Overpopulation is even having an adverse effect on agricultural outcomes. More population means smaller farms, and that leads to a decline in productivity. Availability of cultivable land in 1990 was 0.17 hector per person and the estimated availability of cultivable land by the year 2025 will be 0.07 hector per person. The same would happen with the forests and also with the availability of freshwater.

People having smaller farms have no other choice but to migrate in the hope of a better life . This leads to urbanization, which itself is a major social problem .

Overpopulation has contributed to an increase in the number of social evils. Lawlessness, crime, and corruption are all the result of the population explosion. The fight over resources has divided the society into two groups i.e. those who have all and are not willing to share it and the second group that is fighting for its mere survival. This fight between haves and have-nots has the inherent seeds of conflict in it, which if erupted could imperil the peace and order in the society.

Overpopulation in cities has also contributed to toxic pollution. A greater number of vehicles on the roads mean the availability of large quantities of poisonous gas for people to inhale. Sewage problems and lack of clean drinking water can also be attributed to the population problem.

The world has touched the seven billion mark in population. After years of industrialization and technological advances, the world still suffers in providing basic necessities to the masses. Apart from a few exceptions in Europe having a negative birth rate, overpopulation is a common problem of many nations around the world.

Many of the countries have tried hard and to some extent, they have been successful. China, around three decades ago, was facing shortages in food but today it is the largest growing economy in the world. The “One Child Policy” has done wonders for this new economic power. China has also proved the fact that through proper planning a huge population could be transformed into an economic asset.

Solution for Population Explosion in Pakistan

Now the question arises of how we can tackle this problem. So for this here are some of the solutions.

It is the right time that we nip the evil in the bud with proper planning. Education is the key to success against the menace of overpopulation. It will not only generate awareness against the hazards of overpopulation among the masses but will also create a healthy environment for birth control methods to flourish. The poor literacy rate in Pakistan is certainly adding to the difficulties, already being faced by the health workers in their fight against the problem.

The role of media is also an important factor. With most of the population, illiterate electronic media could prove to be a huge success in getting the message across. Print media too needs to emphasize the problems of overpopulation on a more regular basis. Availability of birth control. methods in the remote areas of the country should be ensured. The role of lady health workers should be expanded and the good office of every union council should make their supervision compulsory.

“Devolution Plan” was devised to make the participation of people at the grassroots level. Now it is time we solved the problem of overpopulation with greater participation and support from these local councils. But this task will be not as easy to accomplish, as it may appear to be.

According to a report by Population Action International Washington, a great reason for the population increase in Pakistan is that the Government has made a very insignificant investment in the social sector owing to religious problems and secondly women having no say and freedom. A  conservative society like ours is certainly not ripe to carry out a war against overpopulation. Therefore, the role of religious leaders emerges as an important aspect if we are to succeed against this menace. Big landowners,s in rural areas too can influence the masses. It is high time they joined in against the fight for a better future.

Once these two classes are on the side of the government, there is no way that the government will not be able to solve the problem. Another factor that has for long proven to be a hurdle in solving the population problems is the poor state of our womenfolk in society. The rights of women must be restored and the discrimination against them must be stopped. In this context, Anti-Women Practices Bill was recently passed on Nov 16, 2011.

Many women in the country are aware of the problems generated by having large families but they.have little say in deciding about the strength of the family. ln a male-dominated society like ours women often falls victim to the blind wishes of their male partners. Women often die in labor and owing to the lack of gaps between successive births. Their health also deteriorates to an alarming stage.

Following recommendations can be implemented in order to control the population:

  • Family planning facilities be made a part of health facilities,
  • There should be a greater role for local and provincial governments
  • Role of NGOs and doctors in the disbursement of Aid received for family panning
  • Males should be urged to cooperate more
  • Status of women to be raised in society as done by the present government by giving more seats in assemblies
  • Better health and educational facilities for women
  • The issue to be taken as a national crisis
  • Role of media to be encouraged especially in rural areas
  • Government programs should involve Ulemas and NGOs
  • Greater participation of landlords

The problem of overpopulation is very serious because it leads to frustration, which means chaos. Chaos means anarchy and anarchy endangers the state.

Pakistan is today standing at a crossroads. It will either perish forever or will emerge as a stronger nation. What is needed is a vision and a sincere leadership that could transform dreams into reality. The problem of overpopulation has now started to haunt us and unless we tackle it pragmatically our dream of a bright and glorious future will just remain a pious wish. It needs a multipronged attack to deal with overpopulation.

A strong Pakistan should be our first priority and if we have to make certain hard decisions for its accomplishment no one should hesitate to lead and pull the trigger. Indeed, Pakistan comes first even before our personal vested interests.

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Human Overpopulation: Causes and Effects in Developing Countries

Profile image of Hanan Maryil

This research paper outlines the causes and effects of human overpopulation, focusing in developing countries. The primary cause of this problems includes low mortality rates coupled with high birth rates. The exponential influx in human overpopulation has had negative effects on both the economic stability and environment of the affected countries. In addition to the causes and effects discussed, potential solutions are proposed to assist in the mitigation of the problem.

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Over-population is a great Problem for many countries. This research looks into all possible solutions for this problem. World population has jumped from about 2.5 billion in 1951 to 7.8 billion in April 2020 , 212% increase. Over-population has been an issue for many countries especially in Africa, as Africa has the highest fertility rate ,children per woman, and Africans are low on resources especially for those who live in the middle of Africa ,in other words, near the equator, Because of its hot weather and being low on water, it is optimum environment for spreading diseases and droughts which its direct relation to overpopulation was later discovered resulting in lack of resources and slowness of economy development. Human Resources management has important terminology which need to be understood before getting into our main topic: fertility rate is the average children per woman, birth rate is the average number of children born per year and death rate is the number of deaths per year, natural change is the birth rate minus the death rate . Social Scientists have many theories on what causes over-population, Some suggest that poverty is the main cause of over-population as it is seen in most poor countries like in Africa unlike rich countries in Europe. They suggest that families try to overcome their poor condition by having more children. But other scientists argue that it can be correlation and something else is causing both of them. They suggest that it is a high death rates. Also, through comparing between poor Countries and rich Countries, it can be notice that in poor countries, death rates are high as of that most families give birth to many children. There are other suggested causes like lack of education and child labor. Over-population can cause many serious problems especially for poor countries. For example, It can cause lack of water in developing countries because as the population grow, water consumption increases. For countries that do not have a fresh stable water source, This can lead to droughts and lower life expectancy. Also, population growth could cause Extinction of wild life and pollution because forests and natural environments for various animals are cut down to free more space for buildings and cities. green house effect was learned in (CH.2.11) about and learned In (ES.2.10) about the role of plants in stabilizing the carbon dioxide percentage and the role of forest in keeping biodiversity in (BI.2.12). For These reasons, Countries tried to solve this issue, because of its significant impact on the economy and the productivity. Some of these solutions were the “one-child-policy” and “two-child-policy” tried by China to control population growth using the law. The Results of them were very fast. Other places tried to control over-population by focusing on education especially for girls like in Europe in the 19 th century. To conclude, This research will focus on these prior solutions and others and discuss why they work.

International Journal of Science, Technology and Society

Casmir Onyeneke

Overpopulation is an immensely dangerous problem that does not affect only individual countries but worldwide. It has many causes such as immigration; early marriages, poor medical access, and education are the main reasons to be indicated. While it has many reasons why the earth faces overcrowded, overpopulation's effects are considered a perilous crisis more than itself. In the past, researchers have explored how to stop this rising problem even though; they have tried several ways from mass sterilization to awarding families with no child. None of these approaches worked instead, people tend to have more children and take this dangerous risk. Therefore, depletion of natural resources, rise in pollution, epidemics, and other diseases are the main consequences of overpopulation which this literature review has discussed. Even though scientists and nature activists have argued about the effects of overcrowding on the earth, humankind, and health, there is no right solution taken by us: humans as a creator of this crisis. Furthermore, this research will concentrate on the possible effects of overpopulation on the earth, health, and human kind. Plus, it suggests some possible solutions. Significantly, it illustrates how overpopulation will impact natural resources and human health.

Sandu Szilveszter

The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the overpopulation issue of India and propose recommendations on how to overcome it. First, the paper summarizes the crucial demographic conditions and where India stands by numbers. Then the article presents the development of the state approach to the issue starting from the early years of independence up to the current policies. It does so by scrutinizing its cultural, economic and social factors and implications of overpopulation and identifies socioeconomic backwardness, early marriages and family norms, lack of adequate health care infrastructure and education as the correlated and interdependent features supporting the trend of overpopulation. The authors come up with three recommendations to tackle the issue – women empowerment, education and industrialization.

Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B: Biological Sciences

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The 20th century has seen unprecedented growth of the human population on this planet. While at the beginning of the century the Earth had an estimated 1.6 billion inhabitants, this number grew to 6.1 billion by the end of the century, and further significant growth is a near certainty. This paper tries to summarize what factors lie behind this extraordinary expansion of the human population and what population growth we can expect for the future. It discusses the concept of demographic transition and the preconditions for a lasting secular fertility decline. Recent fertility declines in all parts of the world now make it likely that human population growth will come to an end over the course of this century, but in parts of the developing world significant population growth is still to be expected over the coming decades. The slowing of population growth through declining birth rates, together with still increasing life expectancy, will result in a strong ageing of population age s...

Joseph A Heath

Analysis of how to tackle this issue. Written in spring 2016.

Environmental and Resource Economics

john Cleland

Thandolwenkosi Mthembu

Rapid population growth has been a topic of contestation on a socio-economic, statistical and environmental stance. It has proven to be a great cause for concern in much literature with regards to resource scarcity and the earth’s capacity to withstand the impact thereof, it’s hindrance to economic and social development and it’s threat to global political stability. It is important to note that 80 percent of the world’s population is found in low income countries (Hewitt) and in as much as it has been proven that population growth is exponential in these areas, it has not been resolved that one is poor because they have many children. Quite the opposite has been argued of which recent literature on the relationship between population and development has illustrated. When looking specifically at overpopulation in relation to development, there are two standpoints. The first one sees population growth being the barrier to sustainable development efforts as a whole, and much like the Malthusian Theory it urges control over population growth. The other standpoint denounces claims that overpopulation is the cause of social and economic development problems, but says it is a symptom of it. This essay will be looking at both standpoints so as to critically evaluate whether overpopulation really is the principle cause of development problems.

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Causes Of Overpopulation In Pakistan

Rida Faqeer Muhammad

In human biology, the total number of people living in a given area (such as a country or the entire world) is constantly changing due to both increases and decreases in deaths and migrations. The terms “overpopulation” and “population explosion” are used to describe the idea of a growing population with dwindling resources.

Pakistan’s total population is 177.1 million, up from 173.5 million the previous year, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2010-11. Pakistan ranks sixth among the world’s most populous countries, with a population growth rate of 2.1 percent. Now let’s discuss the main causes of overpopulation in Pakistan.

The following are the main causes of Pakistan’s overpopulation:

Table of Content

Raziq is ALLAH

Muslims believe that God provides food for everyone, including an ant living in a stone. So, why do they reduce family size? 71 percent have a no or low opportunity cost. In Pakistan, women do not participate in economic activities. Women do not suffer any financial losses as a result of having a child. In Pakistan, the cost of having a child is very low, if not zero.

Causes Of Overpopulation In Pakistan

Low Income Per Capita

Per capita income is calculated by dividing national income by the total population. Low per capita income indicates population growth. Pakistan’s per capita income is $ 1254.

Unemployment

It is a term used to describe the state of being unemployed. Unemployment is also seen as a sign of overcrowding. It is difficult to adjust economic activities to accommodate such a large population. Pakistan has a 5.6 percent unemployment rate.

Extremely Rapid Population Growth

The birth rate is extremely high, indicating that our country is overcrowded. Pakistan has a population growth rate of 2.1 percent.

More Earning Hands Are Required

In developing countries like Pakistan, a single person cannot support his large family. He believes that having more children will provide him with more earning potential.

Afghan Refugees

The influx of refugees from India, particularly Afghanistan, has resulted in an increase in population.

Relatively Low Death Rate

Another cause of overpopulation is a decrease in the death rate. In 1951, the death rate was 2.8 percent, but in 2010-11, it was only 0.73 percent.

Low Living Standards

It has been observed that low-income Pakistanis have more children. It is difficult to provide for such a large family. As a result, the population’s living standards are low.

Causes Of Overpopulation In Pakistan

Warm Weather

Because of the warm climate, youth and maturity come early in life. It also has the effect of causing rapid population growth.

Family Planning Isn’t Available

In Pakistan, there is no effective family planning. The methods of family planning are unfamiliar to most people. They are hesitant to seek medical advice.

Joint Family System

In a joint family system, there is competition among family members based on the size of the family. It is also a factor in children’s rapid growth.

Early Marriages

In Pakistan, marriages usually take place between the ages of 16 and 22. The time it takes to re-productivity is extremely long. Consult Gynecologist if you need any information on early reproductivity.

It is a condition in which a person is unable to read or write. People are unaware of the economic problems caused by a high birth rate due to a lack of education. Pakistan has a literacy rate of 57.7%.

Population Inefficiency

In our county, the dependency ratio is extremely high. Only 32.17 percent of the population participates in economic activities, while the remaining 67.83 percent relies on them. It sees land pressure and population expulsion as a problem.

Polygamy Experimentation

Polygamy is the state or practice of having multiple wives at the same time. Polygamy is another factor that contributes to population growth.

Causes Of Overpopulation In Pakistan

Urbanization

It is the first step in the process of becoming a city. Many social issues exist as a result of rural-urban migration and a lack of infrastructure in cities. As a result, the urban population increases. Overpopulation is indicated by a higher rate of urbanization.

Low Savings and Investing

In Pakistan, the savings and investment rates of GDP are only 9.5 percent and 13.4 percent, respectively. Because of the low rate of savings, the rate of investment and employment is also very low. As a result, these figures suggest that Pakistan is overcrowded.

Inadequate Nutrition

People in Pakistan have a poor diet, which has an impact on their health and ability to work. It lowers per capita income, indicating a population explosion.

Large Family Concept

Large families are thought to be a source of power for influencing and controlling those around them. People are proud of their large families.

Vicious Poverty Circle

A rapid increase in the population reduces per capita income, savings, investment, and productivity. As a result, a country is trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty. Poverty’s vicious circle is also a symbol of overpopulation.

Marriage Universality

Wedlock is entered into by all men and women of marriageable age. As a result, Pakistan’s birth rate is higher.

Lack of Alternative Activities

In Pakistan, recreational facilities and employment opportunities are scarce. In Pakistan, passing the time and any other pleasures are prohibitively expensive. As a result, men have more time with their wives.

Ending Notes

In developing countries like Pakistan, a high population growth rate has negative consequences for economic development. In Pakistan, a high rate of population growth means poverty, illiteracy, a low standard of living, a lack of prosperity, and a vicious cycle of poverty. Consult Gynecologist for any information on reproductivity.

Book an appointment now, to answer all your queries. You can book an appointment with the top gynecologists in Pakistan through Marham or get appointment by calling at Marham helpline: 0311-1222398 or by online booking facility through the website or Marham mobile app.

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What are the primary causes of overpopulation.

  • Falling Mortality Rate.
  • Underutilized Contraception.
  • Female Education Deficit.
  • Degradation of the environment.
  • An increase in the number of conflicts.
  • Disasters and pandemics are more likely.

What are the consequences of Pakistan’s overpopulation?

In developing countries like Pakistan, a high population growth rate has negative consequences for economic development. In Pakistan, a high rate of population growth means poverty, illiteracy, a low standard of living, a lack of prosperity, and a vicious cycle of poverty.

What are the four factors that contribute to poverty?

Unequal wealth distribution, disease, colonization and past inequalities, as well as bad governance and corruption* are four factors that contribute to poor living conditions.

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

Rida Faqeer Muhammad is a psychology student and content writer with a deep understanding of human behavior and a talent for creating engaging and informative content. With a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's in Speech and Language Pathology, she combines her knowledge of psychology with strong writing skills to produce well-researched articles, blog posts, and social media content. Rida's expertise lies in conducting thorough research, delivering polished and high-quality content, and adapting writing styles for various audiences and platforms. Her content strategies, developed with a focus on SEO optimization, ensure maximum visibility and engagement. With a passion for personal development and wellness, her work resonates with readers and offers practical insights. Her ability to translate complex psychological concepts into accessible content makes her a valuable contributor in the field.

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Essay Outline on Population Explosion in Pakistan

Essay Outline on Population Explosion in Pakistan

Table of Contents

Essay Outline

  • Population in the world
  • Conditions in Pakistan
  • Population Table
  • Better medical facility
  • Lack of education
  • Lack of planning of the government as per the resources
  • Desire for a male child
  • Early marriages
  • Abundant food resources
  • Effect on economic growth
  • Problems in urban cities like Karachi
  • Effect on agriculture
  • Urbanisation
  • Social evils
  • Role of media
  • Role of religious scholar
  • Education for all
  • Resources as well as population
  • Chinese model

Essay on Population Explosion in Pakistan

(essay introduction).

Overpopulation is a condition where an organism’s numbers exceed the carrying capacity of its habitat. The term often refers to the relationship between the human population and its environment, the Earth. Steve Jones, head of the biology department at University College London, has said, “Humans are 10,000 times more common than we should be, according to the rules of the animal kingdom, and we have agriculture to thank for that. Without fanning, the world population would probably have reached half a million by now.” The world’s population has significantly increased in the last 50 years, mainly due to medical advancements and substantial increases in agricultural productivity.

The recent rapid increase in human population over the past two centuries has raised concerns that humans are beginning to overpopulate the Earth, and that the planet may not be able to sustain present or larger numbers of inhabitants. The population has been growing continuously since the end of the Black Death, around the year 1400; at the beginning of the 19th century, it had reached roughly 1,000,000,000 (1 billion). Increases in medical technology have led to rapid population growth on a worldwide level. Current projections show a steady decline in the population growth rate, with the population expected to reach between 8 and 10.5 billion between the year 2040 and 2050.

The scientific consensus is that the current population expansion and accompanying increase m usage of resources is linked to threats to the ecosystem. The Inter Academy Panel Statement on Population Growth, which was ratified by 58 member national academies m 1994, called the growth in human numbers “unprecedented”, and stated that many environmental problems, such as rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, global warming, and pollution, were aggravated by the population expansion. At the time, the world population stood at 5.5 billion, and low-bound scenarios predicted a peak of 7.8 billion by 2050, a number that current estimates show will be reached around 2022. But in 2011, world population reached 7 billion.

Population explosion is a global problem. It is equally true of Pakistan. Everyday we come across the oft-repeated phrase, Population Bomb is ticking”. A state based on Islamic ideology should be an ideal state. Since its inception, Pakistan had to face the problems of illiteracy, poverty, pollution, unemployment, lawlessness & terrorism, inflation, loans, corruption, defective tax structure, government instability and many more chronic problems. Unless we achieve a control on population, these related problems will not be easily solved.

At the time of partition, the area, which today comprises Pakistan, had a population of 33 million. The following table shows population of Pakistan at different times since its inception.

According to experts, under the same growth rate, the population of Pakistan would be greater than that of China by the year 2035.

About the author

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

Shahzad F. Malik

Shahzad Faisal Malik is the administrator of CSSTimes.pk and is responsible for managing the content, design, and overall direction of the blog. He has a strong background in Competitive Exams and is passionate and sharing information with others. Shahzad Faisal Malik has worked as a Graphic Designer/Content Creator at CSSTimes in the past. In his free time, Shahzad Faisal Malik enjoys watching Cricket, writing blogs for different websites and is always on the lookout for new and interesting content to share with the readers of this website. As the website administrator, Shahzad Faisal Malik is dedicated to providing high-quality content and fostering a welcoming and engaging community for readers. He looks forward to connecting with readers and hearing their thoughts and feedback on the website.

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Effects Of Overpopulation In Pakistan

The qualitative aspects Of population, major factors affecting population growth, Malthusian population trap, the problems created by overpopulation and the possible solutions to the problems. All this will be done with the help of graphs. Introduction: Overpopulation can be defined as the condition where “finite resources of a particular area will run out if the population expands beyond a given point”. Economics is defined as the social science dealing with the allocation of scarce resources. The earth has a reserve of scarce resources and when the population exceeds a certain level, allocation of these resources becomes official and leads to various economic problems such as unemployment and poverty.

Essay Example on Overpopulation In Pakistan

Historical perspective: The population of the world has reached six billion. There has been a gradual increase in the world population over the centuries (see table 2. 1 and fig. 2. 2).

During the 1 sass the growth rate was low a mere 1. 47%, it further decreased during the sass’s. The main reason for this decline was that if at that time an epidemic spread, it ravaged millions of people.

Also the infant mortality rate was high but despite the less use of contraceptives, the population growth rate was low. In the decade of 1 970, the population increased very quickly and problems related to overpopulation arose.

This made the people realize the need for restricting their families, so after the sass’s the growth rate started declining. This is not of much help because there were already a large number of people present on the earth now; the damage had been already done.

essay on overpopulation in pakistan pdf

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The population distribution has also affected this. Population density: One very interesting fact is that most of the world population is concentrated in the lesser-developed countries, most of which are in Asia (see fig 2. 3).

These countries have limited resources, so the increasing population is a strain on the country. As the people have lesser exposure to the facilities of living, they remain unaware of problem of population and continue to have large families. In comparison to the world growth rate the, the growth rate of Asia only started to decline during the sass’s. It means that the more developed countries, which are mostly located in the west, mainly offered the reduction in growth rate. As the lower developed countries were unable to control population growth, they were unable to develop themselves.

They are aught in a dilemma; a lot of labor force but most of the available human force were not productive. Purpose of Assignment: Our aim is to analyze the overpopulation problem in Pakistan. Although the population has qualitative as well as quantitative aspects, we will focus mainly On the quantitative aspects. Overpopulation poses threats to the society and the economy. Our focus is the economy but we will also discuss some social issues, relating to the economy.

Relationship between population and economic development: Production level of a country can be boosted by the working capacity of the population. Population is playing a double role in the process of economic development of third world countries. It provides labor force for economic development and is also a burden on resources. Population in Pakistan include: Growth rate, birth rate, death rate and migration.

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Effects Of Overpopulation In Pakistan

Overpopulation Essay

500 words essay on overpopulation.

Overpopulation refers to an undesirable condition in which the number of existing human being exceeds the actual carrying capacity of the earth. It has many causes which range from a decline in the death rate to early marriages and more. The overpopulation essay will throw light on this issue.

overpopulation essay

Ill-Effects of Overpopulation

The ill-effects of overpopulation are quite severe. The first one is that natural resources deplete at a faster level. Our planet can produce only a limited amount of water and food . Thus, overpopulation causes environmental damage including deforestation, pollution, etc.

Similarly, there is the degradation of the environment which happens because of the overuse of resources like coal, oil, natural gases and more. As a result, the quality of air also gets affected in this manner.

In developing countries, overpopulation puts a strain on resources. Thus, it gives rise to conflicts and tension. It also causes more diseases that become harder to control. Next up, we have the issue of unemployment.

Moreover, it rises due to overpopulation. There is more number of people than job opportunities. As a result, unemployment gives rise to crimes like theft and more. We also have pandemics and epidemics which happen due to overpopulation.

It is because overcrowded and unhygienic living gives rise to infectious diseases . Another ill-effect is malnutrition and starvation. When there are scarce resources, these diseases will likely to be on the rise.

Most importantly, we have a shortage of water which makes it tougher for people to get access to clean water. Similarly, lower life expectancy also happens because of the boom in population, especially in less-developed nations.

We also witness faster climate change as nations continue to develop their industrial capacities. Thus, they emit industrial waste which gives rise to global temperatures . It will keep getting worse if things are not checked immediately.

Solutions of Overpopulation

There are many solutions which we may take up to prevent overpopulation. The best measure is family planning to keep the overpopulation check. In order to do that, one can ensure proper spacing between the births of the children.

Further, limiting the number of children as per income and resources must also be important. Similarly, it is essential to increase resources. The government must make the horrors of overpopulation reach the public through the use of media.

Moreover, better education can help implement social change which can curb overpopulation. Next up, knowledge of sex education must be made mandatory in schools so students learn young about everything they need to know.

Most importantly, it is essential to empower women so they can break out of poverty. This way, they can learn about reproductive health and make better decisions. Another solution can be government incentives.

Many governments of countries already have various policies which relate to tax exemptions for curbing overpopulation. For instance, some waive a certain part of income tax for married couples with one or two children.

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Conclusion of Overpopulation Essay

All in all, overpopulation is no less than a curse that poses a permanent threat to the development of any country. It is essential to stop the flood of population. In order to do that, one must indulge in proper family planning and creating balance in society for a better world.

FAQ of Overpopulation Essay

Question 1: What is the main cause of overpopulation?

Answer 1: It is believed that the main cause of overpopulation is poverty. When there is a lack of education resource which coupled with high death rates, it results in impoverished areas witnessing large booms in population.

Question 2: How is overpopulation affecting the world?

Answer 2: Overpopulation is affecting the world as it is outpacing the ability of the planet earth to support it. It also has environmental and economic outcomes which range from the impacts of over-farming on global warming.

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