Islamabad: Today marks the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms, a day dedicated to raising awareness and addressing the increasing frequency and severity of these environmental phenomena. The observance underscores a growing international concern over the impact of sand and dust storms on communities and ecosystems worldwide.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the United Nations has noted a significant rise in the occurrence and intensity of sand and dust storms in recent years. In response to this environmental challenge, the UN General Assembly has declared the decade from 2025 to 2034 as the United Nations Decade on Combating Sand and Dust Storms. This initiative aims to enhance global efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of these storms and improve the resilience of affected communities.

The focus of the International Day and the upcoming decade-long initiative is to foster greater understanding and cooperation among nations to develop strategies that effectively combat the causes and consequences of these powerful natural events.