Air pollution levels now in ‘very unhealthy range’ in several areas: CM’s adviser

The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa), under the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development, organised a seminar titled “Environmental Governance and Sustainability Challenges in Sindh” at Beach Luxury Hotel, Karachi.

The event was attended by guests, prominent environmental experts, industrialists, secretaries from various Sindh government departments, civil society representatives, and other key stakeholders.

Additionally, several distinguished participants joined the seminar virtually via Zoom. The seminar aimed to discuss pressing environmental challenges in Sindh and explore sustainable solutions.

Addressing the event as the chief guest, Advisor to the CM on Environment, Climate Change Dost Muhammad Rahimoon reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening environmental governance. He emphasized the importance of effective enforcement of environmental regulations, key policy initiatives, and public awareness in achieving sustainability.

He also highlighted the need for collective action among all stakeholders to tackle issues such as plastic waste, solid waste management, marine pollution, and industrial emissions. He pointed out that air pollution levels in several areas have reached the "unhealthy" to "very unhealthy" range, while water quality in many locations remains unfit for human consumption.

The adviser urged industrial sectors to adopt eco-friendly policies and take responsibility for reducing pollution.

Director General Sepa Naeem Ahmed Mughal delivered the keynote address presenting findings from Sepa’s latest environmental survey, which revealed alarming levels of air and water pollution across Sindh.

Secretary Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development Department Agha Shah Nawaz highlighted the Sindh government’s efforts toward environmental protection and sustainability.

Discussions during the seminar underscored that Sindh, despite its rich natural resources and diverse ecosystems, faces significant environmental challenges, including pollution, excessive noise levels, industrial waste disposal issues, and inadequate waste management.

Experts stressed that environmental sustainability is not solely the government's responsibility; rather, it requires the active participation of industries, citizens, and civil society organizations.

To address these challenges, the government is taking multiple initiatives, such as strengthening environmental monitoring systems, improving waste management strategies, protecting coastal areas, and introducing new policies for sustainable urban planning. Participants agreed on the need for adopting eco-friendly practices, ensuring compliance with environmental laws, and implementing modern, effective strategies for sustainable development.

The seminar concluded with a souvenir distribution ceremony, where speakers and environmental experts were honoured with commemorative shields in recognition of their contributions.