The National Assembly Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination has expressed concern over massive deforestation in Pakistan.
The NA Climate Body’s meeting was convened on July 22, with a sharp focus on the pressing issue of deforestation, alongside other critical environmental challenges expressed concerns over massive tree cutting taking place in the country.
The meeting was chaired by Member National Assembly (MNA) Munaza Hassan.
As reported, a comprehensive discussion was held stressing the urgent need for formulating effective strategies and regional-specific policies to counter rapid deforestation in Pakistan.
The Chair stressed the importance of immediate and concerted action to tackle deforestation, calling for increased collaboration and effective enforcement of environmental policies.
The Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change acknowledged the committee’s pivotal role in driving climate initiatives, requesting members to contribute their insights and proposals.
The Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change provided a detailed briefing on the Ministry’s operations, emphasizing the significant impacts of climate change, the necessity of global cooperation, and the Ministry’s efforts in planning and policy-making. The presentation addressed various climate challenges, including the 2022 floods, climate finance, and ongoing projects such as the Green Pakistan initiative.
Committee members engaged in a robust discussion, voicing concerns about the implementation of climate policies, deforestation, and the need for region-specific approaches. They highlighted the importance of local stakeholder engagement and improved coordination with provincial authorities and organizations like the National Disaster Management Authority and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities.
The Committee recommended enhancing coordination with provincial authorities to ensure the effective implementation of deforestation policies. They stressed the need for comprehensive strategies to combat deforestation and emphasized the importance of preserving forests.
Additionally, the Committee called for involving local stakeholders and representatives in policy-making to ensure that various initiatives are tailored to regional needs.