Karachi, In an effort to address the critical levels of air pollution in Sindh, Provincial Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah announced significant progress in the adoption of alternative energy sources, particularly solar energy, during his message on World Environment Day. The minister emphasized the urgent need to expand the use of renewable energy and forestation to mitigate environmental degradation.

According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Sindh, Minister Shah outlined the government’s initiatives to combat environmental challenges both locally and internationally. He highlighted the alarming rate of air pollution in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh, which he attributed to emissions from vehicles and industrial activities. In response, the Sindh government has undertaken a series of measures to transition to cleaner energy sources.

The solarization of government buildings is a key component of these efforts, with 34 government buildings already fully solarized. Plans are in place to complete solar installations in 23 more by June 2024 and a total of 100 by July 2024. These projects are part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on polluting fuels and increase the province’s capacity for alternative energy.

Additionally, Minister Shah mentioned ongoing urban forestry projects directed by Chairman Bilawal Bhutto, aimed at creating a greener and cleaner Sindh. These initiatives are designed to complement the energy projects by further reducing the environmental footprint of the province.