In rural areas, trees are cut down to make for the energy required for basic household chores
LAHORE: Given the rapid rise in population, it is inevitable to develop infrastructural facilities proportionately. Water and sanitation, roads and housing require land and allocation of natural resources for the purpose. However, part of the solution to the problem comes from better and effective management of the already developed facilities. Unfortunately, to local authorities in Pakistan the only way to clear land up for construction purpose or traffic management is to cut trees down or bulldoze the green belts alongside the roads. This practice is a short-term solution to the ever growing menace of traffic and housing in developing countries with disastrous consequences in the long run. According to a recent report by the UN, South Asian countries, particularly India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, will be highly vulnerable to deadly threats of severe heatwaves. The temperature will be closest to the limits of survivability.
In rural areas, trees are cut down to make for the energy required for basic household chores. Nevertheless, this has a dual effect and contributes to climate adversity. Burning wood does not only lead to massive carbon emissions but also destroys the natural habitat for birds and animals, simultaneously resulting in more polluted air to breathe in.
Despite the alarmingly looming climate threat, the authorities have failed to take appropriate actions. There is a dire need not only to efficiently plan housing and transportation but also to exploit and make use of alternative energy resources that generate fewer pollutants. Solar energy panels are one efficient method with least manufacturing cost to cater the limited energy requirement of rural settlements. The ministry of climate change and the authorities concerned need to devise and implement measures for climate control in order to deal with climate-induced natural calamities.
Umaima Jawed
Published in The Express Tribune, August 19th, 2017.
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