Constructions around Rawal Dam ring alarms

Senate panel raises concerns over deforestation around the reservoir

ISLAMABAD:

The Standing Committee on Climate Change has raised alarm over ongoing deforestation and unauthorized construction near Rawal Dam in Islamabad's Margalla National Park.

During a meeting chaired by Senator Sherry Rehman in Parliament on Wednesday, members discussed the efforts made by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) regarding the recharging of Rawal Dam, which supplies water to the capital.

Senator Sherry Rehman questioned the lack of progress in water and waste treatment infrastructure in Pakistan compared to other regions, stressing the importance of protecting natural resources.

Farzana Altaf, Director General of the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), informed the committee that the Punjab government was carrying out construction work around the Rawal Dam area without the necessary approval from the EPA. She also revealed that despite repeated notices, the Punjab Irrigation Department had continued with the construction, leading to the indiscriminate cutting of trees.

Altaf emphasised that the Rawal Dam area is part of the Margalla National Park, a protected site that also holds historical significance, including the presence of an ancient temple. She highlighted the approval for the construction of a Chief Minister's camp office near the dam, but noted that the protected area had been encroached upon. The Secretary of the Punjab Irrigation Department responded, stating that the construction was not carried out by their department but by the Communication Department, and confirmed that the Chief Minister's camp office was being built.

Senator Sherry Rehman took strong exception to the developments and directed the EPA to provide photographic evidence of the encroachment. She also emphasised that no construction should take place around Rawal Dam and demanded a response from the Punjab government on the matter.

The committee also reviewed the amended Pakistan Trade Control for Wildlife and Plants Bill 2024, presented by Senator Shahadat Awan, which seeks to regulate the trade of wild animals and plants. The bill was passed after some deliberation, with Awan urging that the only amendment should be a clear definition of terms to avoid delays.

The meeting also covered preparations for the COP-29 conference on climate change. The Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change briefed the committee on Pakistan's strategy for the upcoming event, highlighting the formation of a special committee on Pakistan's carbon market and the development of carbon guidelines, which have already been approved by the Prime Minister. The Secretary emphasized the importance of addressing climate financing and Pakistan's position on the Loss and Damage Fund Agreement during COP-29 negotiations.

Senator Rehman stressed the significance of climate action and the need for Pakistan to prioritize its Internationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). She also pointed out that, while Europe has made strides in reducing carbon emissions, countries like Pakistan are facing severe challenges, including the smog crisis in Punjab. She urged the committee to focus on green solutions and climate adaptation strategies, saying, "Climate change denial is our biggest enemy."