Government Taking Significant Steps to Combat Climate Change: Zartaj Gul
Photo Credits: Associated Press of Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Aug 24 (APP): Minister of State for Climate Change Zartaj Gul Monday said the present government was taking all-out measures for overall environmental protection through forest regeneration and biodiversity conservation programmes for boosting the country’s climate-resilience.
Talking to a private news channel, she said the government has taken several steps for preservation of biodiversity and natural resources by increasing the number of trees under Clean & Green Pakistan project, adding that every person would have to contribute for the preservation of the environment.
“The government will not only oppose construction but will also demolish existing infrastructure to restore biodiversity”, says the Minister of Environment.
She said the Clean and Green Pakistan Programme, envisioned by the Prime Minister, reflects his understanding about the unquestionable importance of forests in tackling climate change and seriousness towards reinvigorating the ailing forestry sector as part of boosting the country’s climate resilience.
She further lamented that businesses in national parks are earning in millions but aren’t directing enough funds under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agreement for preservation and restoration. Replying to a question, she said businesses operating in the national parks try to expand illegally whenever they find an opportunity to do so, adding that for instance, earlier in May, Islamabad’s District Administration sealed the Monal restaurant after its management started chopping down surrounding trees in an attempt to expand secretly.
Zartaj said that “The Federal government has focused on preserving the 15 national parks across Pakistan along with completing the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami project to increase the forest cover in Pakistan.”
She added that the Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) government’s 10 Billion Tree Tsunami project has received global recognition. She also warned that stern action would be taken against the elements involved in illegal forest cutting and illegal construction of buildings on tourist sites leading to deforestation.
Replying to another question, she mentioned that according to rankings released by PMDU, the Ministry of Climate Change tops the ranking list as 57 percent people expressed satisfaction over the performance of the ministry in resolving public complaints. She said now the responsibilities of ministry have increased where citizens complaints related to climate change would be addressed on a priority basis.
She said Prime Minister Imran Khan inaugurated the Pakistan Citizens’ Portal set up at the Prime Minister Office with an aim to “timely address the problems of the people and get their feedback.”
The portal is now available to citizens in the form of a cellphone app, but they are also able to approach the government via telephone, email or written letters.
“The system that we’ve developed is a means to change the prevailing mindset. For the first time, government offices and ministries are accountable”, she said, adding that it would give ordinary Pakistanis, both home and abroad, a voice.
While listing steps taken by her ministry to tackle the climate change issue, she mentioned that the government has initiated remarkable programs including Go Green Pakistan, plantation of trees, ban on plastic bags, renewable energy resources and e-cars to combat the environmental issue and reduce carbon emissions.
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