Karachi – Karachi faces an urgent environmental crisis, with issues such as pollution, deforestation, and illegal encroachments worsening daily. In response, a delegation from the National Forum for Environment and Health (NFEH) met with Minister for Environment, Climate Change, and Coastal Development, Dost Muhammad Rahimoon, to discuss these critical challenges and propose solutions.
The NFEH delegation, led by President M. Naeem Qureshi, Vice President Engr. Nadeem Ashraf, and Information Secretary Mustafa Tahir, emphasized the need for a coordinated effort to tackle environmental degradation in Karachi. “Every individual must play their part in securing our environment,” said Qureshi. He highlighted the urgent need for a massive tree plantation drive in the city and the imposition of strict laws and heavy fines to curb the activities of environmental mafias.
Karachi generates approximately 12,000 tons of solid waste daily, a significant portion of which remains uncollected and improperly disposed of, contributing to widespread pollution. The city’s green cover has diminished drastically, with less than 2% of its total area now covered by trees, far below the World Health Organization’s recommended urban green cover of 10%.
The situation is further exacerbated by the discharge of untreated wastewater into the sea. Annually, about 472 million gallons of untreated sewage are released into Karachi’s coastal waters, heavily polluting Sea View Beach and adversely affecting marine life. The Indus River, a lifeline for millions, faces similar threats. In Hyderabad, the Phuleli Canal is a major conduit for untreated industrial effluents and municipal waste, which eventually flow into the Indus River. In Sukkur, the disposal of untreated wastewater into the river is causing severe pollution, threatening both human health and marine biodiversity.
Minister Rahimoon echoed these sentiments, expressing his commitment to environmental sustainability. “We must act now to prevent further degradation of our environment. Our ministry is ready to collaborate with NFEH to improve conditions and spread awareness among the masses,” he stated.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to work together on several initiatives. Both parties recognized the importance of public awareness and community involvement in environmental conservation. The Ministry of Environment and NFEH will launch joint campaigns to educate citizens about the importance of protecting the environment and encourage sustainable practices.
In a significant development, Minister Rahimoon accepted an invitation to be the Chief Guest at the 21st Annual Environment Excellence Awards and Conference 2024. His participation underscores the government’s commitment to addressing environmental issues and supporting initiatives that promote environmental excellence.
The NFEH and the Ministry of Environment call on all Karachi residents to join their efforts in making the city greener and more sustainable. With collaborative action and stringent enforcement of environmental laws, Karachi can overcome its current challenges and pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.
