Senate Standing Committee reviews progress in climate action plan

ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (SABAH): The Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change, chaired by Senator Seemee Ezdi, convened on Thursday at Parliament House to address crucial climate action matters.

The committee engaged in a constructive dialogue with the Ministry concerning Question No. 56, asked by Senator Fawzia Arshad, about whether guidelines under Climate Change Policy 2021 have been issued to all stakeholders, including multinational firms to take measures for the promotion of a green environment. The ministry explained that they have been following the guidelines of the Climate Change Policy of 2021. They further stated that the policy is regularly updated on the website for all stakeholders, addressing emerging concepts and issues related to climate change. Additionally, they elaborated on the Ministry’s collaboration with the provinces and the development of a Provincial Climate Change Action Plan in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Ministry expressed its willingness to assist provinces in mainstreaming these policies and commitments into their mandates. The action plan provides a comprehensive framework to support the provinces in maximizing efforts on adaptation and mitigation actions.

Senator Fawzia Arshad highlighted the issue of neglect affecting Kachi Abadis in Islamabad and emphasized the need for climate change adaptation in the city. The Ministry explained that they have initiated rooftop analysis in collaboration with CDA to assess the affected areas and are committed to taking necessary actions within their authority to address the concerns raised.

Discussion within the committee also spotlighted the challenges faced by Karachi and interior Sindh, particularly concerning health, food security, and the plight of the Korangi Industrial Area. Recognizing the need for federal intervention, the Ministry assured proactive measures to alleviate these concerns.

Inquiries were made regarding Pakistan’s climate projects vis-à-vis international donors. The Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change  and Environmental Coordination reported that Pakistan has received significant funding of 500 million dollars from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and expressed the country’s commendable progress in the region.

Chairperson Seeme Ezdi commended the efforts of the Ministry for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, underscoring the importance of collaborative action in addressing climate challenges.

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 of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination.