Practical steps needed to protect Balochistan from environmental degradation: Mullakhail

Independent Report

QUETTA: The Advisor to Chief Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Naseem-ur-Rehman Khan Mullakhail has stressed that the government and general public can take practical steps together to protect the province from environmental degradation and the risks posed by climate change.
Therefore, joint efforts are essential to safeguard the future.
The Advisor was speaking to delegations comprising different social welfare organizations, environmental experts and civil society representatives, who met him here on Friday.
During the meeting, there was detailed discussion on the province’s overall environmental situation, increasing impacts of climate change and future strategies.
The Advisor stated that Balochistan is currently facing severe environmental challenges. Due to low rainfall, water reserves in several districts are rapidly decreasing, whereas in Quetta the underground water level is falling to dangerous levels.
In response, the government has initiated short-term, medium-term, and long-term measures.
He said that the Climate Change Policy 2024 has been implemented to promote environmentally friendly policymaking in the province and an amount of 500 million rupees has been allocated for it. This policy would not only help address current issues but would also lay the foundation for a sustainable environment for future generations.
During the meeting, Naseem-ur-Rehman Mullakhail also mentioned the government’s recent environmental reforms, stating that a phased ban on the use of plastic bags is being implemented to reduce waste and protect the environment from pollution.
Similarly, the delegations about the new administrative system introduced for the safe and modern disposal of hospital waste.
He said that incineration units are being made functional in health institutions to ensure that medical waste is properly disposed of, safeguarding both the environment and public health.
The Advisor further shared that new measures are being taken to improve cleanliness and the solid waste management system in urban areas, which include waste segregation, recycling, and the upgrading of dumping sites. He said that tree-planting campaigns are underway, and strict steps are being taken to ensure the protection of existing plants and trees.
Naseem-ur-Rehman emphasized that the government alone cannot cope with the challenges of climate change and the role of social organizations and citizens is extremely important.
He urged the public to adopt eco-friendly habits in their daily lives, such as reducing the use of plastic bags, avoiding water wastage, participating in tree-planting, and minimizing smoke and toxic gas emissions.