Islamabad, The Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change, under the leadership of Chairperson Senator Seemee Ezdi, gathered at the Parliament House to review the implementation of the Climate Change Policy 2021 and discuss climate action progress and funding.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee engaged with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination on several key issues, including the dissemination of policy guidelines to stakeholders and the development of Provincial Climate Change Action Plans in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Ministry confirmed adherence to the 2021 policy guidelines, regularly updated to include new climate change concepts and challenges, and expressed commitment to supporting provinces in integrating these policies into their operations.

Senator Fawzia Arshad raised concerns about the neglect of Kachi Abadis in Islamabad regarding climate adaptation measures. The Ministry responded with ongoing efforts, such as rooftop analysis in partnership with the Capital Development Authority (CDA), to identify and address affected areas.

The discussion also highlighted the environmental challenges in Karachi and interior Sindh, including health and food security issues, particularly in the Korangi Industrial Area. The Ministry assured the committee of its proactive stance in addressing these concerns through federal intervention.

The Secretary of the Ministry reported on international funding, noting that Pakistan has secured a significant $500 million from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), marking notable progress in regional climate projects.

Chairperson Seeme Ezdi praised the Ministry’s efforts in tackling climate challenges and emphasized the necessity of joint efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts.

The meeting was attended by Senators Taj Haider, Keshoo Bai, Khalida Ateeb, Abida Muhammad Azeem, Dr. Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, Fawzia Arshad, and senior officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, highlighting a unified approach to enhancing Pakistan’s climate resilience and sustainability initiatives.