PHOTO: AFP
National and international experts here on Wednesday, while highlighting the high levels of carbon emissions globally, underlined the significance of environmental, social and economic dimensions of sustainable transport.
They were speaking at the concluding session of a two-day conference, “Paving the way for sustainable transport in Pakistan”, organised by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The speakers discussed a wide range of issues and shared best practices and experiences in sustainable transport from across the globe.
The conference provided a platform to the subject experts and stakeholders to discuss and debate various aspects of sustainable transport including climate change and emissions control, options for eco-friendly freight transport, and institutional mechanisms required to regulate the required actions.
The experts unanimously agreed that the provision of a decent, efficient, safe and affordable public transport system was the key to development.
They said that ensuring availability of sustainable transport would help bring down emissions particularly the greenhouse gases. The experts said that the greenhouse gases could be cut down significantly, if vehicle technology was upgraded.
Ministry of Water and Power Additional Secretary Hassan Nasir Jamy said that the government was well aware of its international commitments towards achieving the goals of sustainable development.
He, while mentioning implementation of Bus Rapid Transit system in four cities, said that the federal government was trying its best for achievement of sustainable transport in the country.
Pakistan Railways Chief Operating Superintendent Mahmood Hasan said that the railways was most suitable for bulk and long haulage.
He said that the railways was five times more fuel efficient and environment-friendly compared to other land carriers.
Hasan said that the Pakistan Railways’ revenues had been consistently increasing by 40 per cent every year, for the past three years.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2015.
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