Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change, chaired by Senator Seemee Ezdi, met at Parliament House to discuss crucial climate issues.
The Committee engaged in a constructive dialogue with the Ministry on Question No. 56 raised by Senator Fawzia Arshad on whether guidelines have been issued under the Climate Change Policy 2021 for all stakeholders, including MNCs, to take action to promote a green environment. The ministry explained that it is following the guidelines of the Climate Change Policy 2021. It further said that the policy is regularly updated on the website for all stakeholders and addresses emerging concepts and issues related to climate change.
They also elaborated on the ministry’s cooperation with the provinces and the development of a provincial climate change action plan in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). The Department has expressed its willingness to assist provinces in incorporating these policies and commitments into their mandates. The Action Plan provides a comprehensive framework to support provinces in maximizing adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Senator Fawzia Arshad highlighted the issue of neglect affecting Kachi Abadis in Islamabad and highlighted the need for climate change adaptation in the city. The ministry explained that it has launched a rooftop analysis in collaboration with the CDA to assess the affected areas and is committed to taking necessary action within its powers to address the concerns raised.
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The committee discussion also highlighted the challenges facing Karachi and hinterland Sindh, particularly in terms of health, food security and the plight of the Korangi industrial area. The Department recognized the need for federal intervention and provided proactive measures to mitigate these concerns.
Inquiries were made regarding Pakistan’s climate projects to international donors. The Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment Coordination has announced that Pakistan has received a substantial funding of $500 million from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and expressed the country’s commendable progress in the region.
President Seeme Ezdi praised the efforts of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination and emphasized the importance of cooperation in solving climate problems.
The meeting was attended by Senator Taj Haider, Senator Keshoo Bai, Senator Khalida Ateeb, Senator Abida Muhammad Azeem, Senator Dr. Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, Senator Fawzia Arshad, Secretary, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment Coordination along with senior officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment Coordination.
