Devastating Glacier Exploitation Halted by Peshawar Court: A Win for Climate Justice

Glacier exploitation has emerged as a dangerous environmental practice in Pakistan, especially in the northern regions. The removal and commercial transport of snow from glaciers for recreational and private use has alarmed environmentalists, as it contributes directly to climate change, water scarcity, and ecological imbalance.

In a powerful move, the Peshawar High Court has intervened, highlighting the urgency to protect the country’s natural water reservoirs and ecosystems.

Peshawar High Court’s Bold Intervention

On [Date of Hearing], the Peshawar High Court issued a historic ruling, banning the removal and transport of snow from mountainous areas such as Swat, Dir, Buner, and Mansehra. This ruling came during a hearing regarding the commercial use of glacier snow, where the court emphasized that the practice is harming the environment and accelerating climate instability.

The court found that glacier exploitation is a direct threat to the environment, leading to the depletion of natural snow reserves and disturbing the hydrological cycle.

“The environment is a collective asset, not a commodity for commercial gain,” stated the judge during the session.

Areas Affected by the Glacier Ban

The court’s order impacts snow removal in:

• Upper Dir
• Swat Valley
• Buner District
• Mansehra

These regions are climate-sensitive zones with abundant snowfall, forming essential sources for rivers and underground water recharge systems. Disruption of this natural snowpack has ripple effects on agriculture, biodiversity, and community water access.

Unsatisfactory Environmental Reports Spark Action

During the hearing, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) submitted a report intended to defend ongoing snow removal operations. However, the court deemed it incomplete and unsatisfactory, signaling the need for more stringent environmental monitoring.

The judge instructed the EPA to submit a comprehensive impact report regarding the practice of snow transportation before the next hearing. This report is expected to assess:

• Glacier melting acceleration
• Ecosystem damage
• Disruption of river flows
• Long-term water security

Until then, all glacier exploitation activities are suspended.

The Role of National Highway Authority (NHA)

An official from the National Highway Authority (NHA) confirmed that snow was being moved from high-altitude regions. While this transportation was partly for road clearance, some activities were found linked to commercial ventures, such as supplying snow for private events and resorts.

The court expressed strong disapproval, reiterating that national roads should not serve as transit routes for illegal natural resource extraction.

The RAFAA Project: Climate Hope from Sindh

In a separate but related development, a €4 million climate initiative was launched in Sindh, one of Pakistan’s most climate-affected regions. The RAFAA Project (Resilience & Adaptation by Fostering Anticipatory Action), funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), aims to bolster climate resilience through early warning systems and community-led adaptation.

Implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Italian NGO CESVI, this 36-month program will:

• Set up multi-hazard early warning systems
• Enhance water quality monitoring
• Develop climate-resilient agriculture
• Support vulnerable rural communities

Marilina Armellin, Italian Ambassador to Pakistan, hosted the signing ceremony, emphasizing global cooperation in tackling environmental degradation.

Learn more about RAFAA Project by FAO and CESVI

Why the Ban Matters for Pakistan’s Climate Future

This court ruling is more than a legal directive; it is a symbolic and practical milestone in Pakistan’s fight against climate change. Pakistan is already facing:

• Glacier melt in the Karakoram and Himalayas
• Severe floods and droughts
• Unpredictable weather cycles
• Declining freshwater reserves

Allowing unregulated glacier exploitation would worsen these challenges. The court’s move reinforces the urgency of eco-centric policies, public awareness, and institutional accountability.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Sustainable Pakistan

The Peshawar High Court’s bold stance against glacier exploitation sends a clear message: Pakistan can no longer afford to ignore the cost of environmental degradation. The decision to halt commercial snow transport protects not only the ecology of affected regions but also the future of millions of citizens relying on these natural systems.

Combined with initiatives like the RAFAA Project in Sindh, this signals a national shift toward sustainable adaptation and environmental justice.

Internal Link Suggestion:

• Read more about climate change impact in Pakistan
• Environmental Protection Laws in Pakistan