CM vows to address environmental challenges

Sindh faces significant environmental challenges due to economic growth, urban sprawl, and industrialization, said Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, addressing a meeting on World Environment Day at CM House.

He said environmental challenges include the degradation of freshwater bodies, marine pollution, urban air pollution, inadequate solid waste management, ecosystem destruction, changes in groundwater, and the associated costs of environmental health risks.

Shah emphasized the need for provincial departments to tackle these issues effectively. He announced monthly meetings to monitor progress. The meeting was attended by key provincial ministers, Karachi's mayor, and other officials.

He highlighted the importance of devising strategies to preserve and improve the environment. He pointed out the decline of freshwater bodies, marine pollution, urban air pollution, inadequate solid waste management, ecosystem destruction, changes in groundwater, and the costs associated with environmental health risks as major concerns.

On World Environment Day 2024, Shah reaffirmed the commitment to protecting the planet, citing climate change, pollution, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and ecosystem destruction as unprecedented challenges. Despite these, he expressed hope, emphasizing that knowledge, technology, and collective will exist to make a difference.

He directed all relevant departments and agencies to consistently address environmental issues, engaging all stakeholders. The government's primary responsibility, he noted, is to provide a healthy environment by reducing the carbon footprint, conserving water and energy, planting trees, supporting reforestation, reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, and promoting sustainable practices and renewable energy.

"We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the future of our planet to act now," Shah stated. "Let us unite in this fight and make a difference, one small step at a time. Together, we can create a better, greener world."

Minister of Health Dr Azra Pechuho mentioned that hospital waste management is improving but requires further steps to protect the environment. Minister of Local Government Saeed Ghani directed local bodies to maintain cleanliness and initiate tree plantation. He is also pursuing waste management installations.

Minister of Irrigation Jam Khan Shoro addressed the issue of untreated industrial water being released into the Indus River and canals, enforcing strict measures and directing Kotri Industrial Area to install treatment plants.

Minister of Environment Dost Rahimoo is working on banning the manufacturing and sale of plastic bags, taking all stakeholders into confidence. CM Shah urged strict implementation of environmental laws to ensure compliance.

This comprehensive approach reflects Sindh's commitment to combating environmental challenges and fostering a sustainable future.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 6^th, 2024