Need for an Environmental Policy (Ishraq Ahmed Hashmi)

There is no doubt that Punjab and Pakistan are currently facing the worst floods in their history, which are gradually increasing due to rains and the release of water by India. After the Indian High Commission in Pakistan informed the Ministry of Water Resources about high-level floods in the Sutlej River, a high alert was issued in 9 districts of Punjab. Kasur, Okara, Bahawalnagar, Pakpattan, Vehari, Lodhran, Bahawalpur, Multan and Muzaffargarh were affected. Thousands of settlements have been submerged by floodwaters, crops and communication roads are under water. Communications have been cut off at many places.

On the other hand, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has said that there is a risk of superflood in Sindh, there is full preparation to deal with the possible threat, the evacuation process is underway, protecting human lives, livestock and barrages is a priority, climate change is a reality, we have to admit that the effects of climate change are very dangerous, the federal government should formulate a comprehensive climate change policy so that Pakistan can better cope with recurring natural disasters. It is certain that now the flood will turn from Punjab to Sindh.

Various bids are also being made in this regard, however, the Sindh Chief Minister's comment and analysis on this is of utmost importance. It is certain that we have never taken climate change and the severity of these changes seriously, otherwise we would not be in this situation that we are in at the moment. As a nation, we have to move forward by accepting the fact that there is no quick escape or refuge from climate change. Well, the consequences of the shortcomings we have made are in front of us. We must now formulate an environmental strategy in collaboration with the federal government and the provinces, otherwise the situation will continue to get worse.

So, Pakistan must urgently adopt a comprehensive National Climate Resilience and Environmental Strategy to mitigate the severe impacts of climate change. This strategy should be a collaborative effort between the federal government and all provinces, transcending political differences. Key components must include the development of a modern, multi-purpose dam and reservoir system to manage both floods and droughts, alongside the restoration of natural floodplains and mangrove forests as natural barriers. Simultaneously, the country must invest in climate-smart agriculture to protect food security, promote sustainable urban planning to reduce the urban heat island effect and improve drainage, and launch a nationwide public awareness campaign to foster a culture of environmental stewardship. This forward-looking policy should also incorporate robust early-warning systems, international partnerships for technology transfer, and a clear, accountable framework for the implementation and funding of climate adaptation projects.