Climate funding needed

In order to combat the long-term effects of climate change and protect the “cradle of civilization”, the incumbent government initiated the Living Indus project. The aim of the project is to work towards conserving and restoring the Indus River — currently one of the most polluted rivers in the world. To support this venture, the climate change ministry in collaboration with UNEP are negotiating with the Green Climate Fund to procure an investment of $25 million. Moreover, UNEP will soon open its offices in the country to kickstart the implementation of the project.

Tackling a wicked crisis requires sustainability on multiple fronts. This is where the Indus River is of utmost importance as, apart from being a habitat for marine life and adding to the country’s biodiversity, it is a source of livelihood for millions of people who either reside near the river or use it as a source of water for lands and agricultural production. Pakistan has time and again shown its commitment towards a green future, and with the country reeling with climate-induced natural disasters, it is time for the international community to step up. The 2022 floods had a tremendous economic and humanitarian impact of the country and the frequency of such incidents will continue to increase.

In order to combat this constant threat Pakistan will require a steady stream of funds, and countries that have contributed to climate change the most should be held responsible in this regard. This is the perfect opportunity for the government to ramp up advocacy and demand reparations from major GHG emitting countries and organisations. Protecting the Indus River and making it resilient to climate change is an uphill battle that will take time and resources.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2023.

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