Pakistan Ramps Up Fight Against Climate Change with Bold National Strategy
Pakistan ramps up fight against climate change through bold strategies like the National Adaptation Plan and Recharge Pakistan to combat floods, droughts, and water scarcity.
Pakistan ramps up fight against climate change with renewed urgency, as the government unveils a strategic blend of national planning, local enforcement, and global partnerships. This proactive approach signals the country’s firm commitment to protecting lives, ecosystems, and its climate-sensitive economy from the escalating risks of climate disasters.
Dr. Shezra Mansab Ali’s Address to National Assembly
On Wednesday, during a parliamentary session, Minister of State for Climate Change Dr. Shezra Mansab Ali emphasized the urgent need for sustainable and proactive climate action.
Responding to MP Shahida Rehmani, Dr. Shezra highlighted that Pakistan is among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change, citing recent events like unprecedented rains and tremors as alarming signs.
“To counter this,” she noted, “we have developed the National Adaptation Plan, under which several key programmes are being implemented, including Recharge Pakistan.”
Recharge Pakistan: A Pivotal Programme
Harnessing Rainwater for Climate Resilience
At the heart of this climate response is the Recharge Pakistan programme, a groundbreaking initiative developed in collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
This program aims to:
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Conserve and store water
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Utilize nature-based solutions to manage flood and rainwater
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Redirect excess water into natural lakes and wetlands
“Instead of letting rainwater go to waste, we are storing it for later use and minimizing the damage caused by floods,” Dr. Shezra explained.
In a supplementary response to MP Naeema Kishwar, the minister described Recharge Pakistan as a “pivotal programme” that addresses both water scarcity and flood control, making it a key pillar of Pakistan’s climate action strategy.
Urban Resilience and Green Building Regulations
Resilient Infrastructure for Future Generations
Another significant reform under the National Adaptation Plan is the introduction of green building regulations to ensure that new urban developments are climate-resilient and environmentally friendly.
“These regulations make it mandatory for buildings to incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs,” the Minister said.
This includes:
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Eco-friendly insulation
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Solar panels
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Efficient water management systems
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has been tasked with monitoring and enforcing these standards, particularly in Islamabad.
Collaboration with Provinces on Deforestation and Land Use
Federal-Provincial Partnership After the 18th Amendment
Dr. Shezra clarified that forest conservation and land use policies are now provincial responsibilities. However, the federal government is actively coordinating with provincial authorities to ensure unified action against:
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Illegal tree cutting
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Land encroachments
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Harmful industrial practices
This cooperation is part of a broader effort to reduce emissions and enhance carbon sinks through reforestation and land restoration.
Disaster Preparedness and Public Awareness
Early Warning Saves Lives
With disasters becoming more frequent, the role of public awareness and disaster preparedness has become crucial. Dr. Shezra highlighted the work of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in:
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Establishing early warning systems
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Issuing real-time alerts
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Educating the public on evacuation and safety protocols
“We must raise awareness so people avoid flood-prone areas and follow instructions during calamities,” she urged.
While systems are in place, the government acknowledges the need for wider outreach, especially in remote and vulnerable communities.
Global Partnerships and Nature-Based Solutions
WWF, UNDP, and Green Climate Fund Contributions
Pakistan’s fight against climate change is also being bolstered by international cooperation. The Recharge Pakistan project and other climate initiatives are supported by:
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UNDP through technical assistance
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WWF in implementing ecosystem restoration
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Green Climate Fund (GCF) providing financial backing
These partnerships enable Pakistan to deploy nature-based solutions, such as:
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Reforestation
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Wetland restoration
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Floodplain zoning
These practices not only mitigate disaster risks but also help preserve biodiversity and sustain rural livelihoods.
Conclusion
The declaration that Pakistan ramps up fight against climate change signals a bold and transformative shift in the country’s environmental policy. Through strategic programmes like the National Adaptation Plan and Recharge Pakistan, backed by provincial coordination and global support, the nation is taking resilient steps to combat the existential threat posed by climate change.
“From water conservation to urban planning and disaster awareness, we are implementing a holistic approach,” Dr. Shezra concluded.
“It’s not just about survival—it’s about securing a sustainable future.”
