Shakoor Khan:
QUETTA: The Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), in partnership with the Center for Peace Development (CPD), BRDS, and IDO, hosted a seminar themed “Our Land, Our Future” to commemorate World Environment Day. The event aimed to raise awareness about the adverse effects of climate change and the collective role in addressing this critical issue.
Governor Balochistan Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, the chief guest, emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to combat climate change. He highlighted the severe water scarcity in Quetta, noting the city’s need for 300 years to address the alarming depletion. He warned of dire consequences for Balochistan’s agriculture and livestock-dependent population if immediate and consistent policies are not implemented.
Governor Mandokhail praised PPAF and CPD for their efforts in raising public awareness about climate change. He called for legislative changes and increased sapling plantations to reduce environmental threats.
Nadir Gul Barech, CEO of PPAF, underscored the importance of World Environment Day in highlighting critical environmental issues. He stressed educating the youth and inspiring meaningful actions across communities, businesses, and governments. Bareech noted the severe impacts of climate change on agriculture and health, advocating for climate-friendly policies and sustainable resource management.
During a panel discussion, Dr. Rubaba Buledi, advisor to the Chief Minister of Balochistan, highlighted the disproportionate impact of natural disasters on women. Ghulam Muhammad, Chief Conservator of the Forest Department, emphasized afforestation efforts to combat desertification. Dr. Zahoor Ahmed Bazai, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Balochistan, advocated for climate-smart agricultural practices. Dr. Tahir Rasheed, CEO of BRSP, highlighted community-driven land restoration projects. Former MPA Qadir Nael stressed the need for Pakistan to prioritize environmental issues to avoid catastrophic consequences.
The CEO of CPD introduced the PPAF’s Restoration of Social Services (RSS) project, aiming to strengthen community resilience against climate change through sustainable practices and innovative solutions.