Federal govt committed to helping flood-hit people: minister

MINGORA: Minister of State for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal on Wednesday said that the federal government would extend all possible support to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and the flood-affected people of Swat.

Talking to the media here, she said on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a detailed assessment of damages was being carried out to ensure timely relief and rehabilitation measures.

She was accompanied by Federal Secretary for Environmental Coordination and Climate Change, Ayesha Humaira Chaudhry, National Project Director Faiz Ali Khan, Chief Conservator of Forests (Regional) Azghar and other senior officials. The minister also visited the flood-affected areas.

The minister also planted a tree at the Chief Conservator Forest Office in Shagai as part of an afforestation initiative. Chief Conservator Azghar briefed her about the scale of destruction caused by recent floods in the region.

Highlighting Pakistan’s vulnerability, Dr Shezra said, “Despite contributing almost nothing to global carbon emissions, Pakistan is among the countries most severely affected by climate change.

She said that the federal government was formulating an integrated policy to address environmental challenges and minimise future risks.

She pointed out that besides climate change, factors such as rapid population growth, unchecked encroachments, and widespread deforestation were major contributors to recurring floods. “Excessive tree cutting weakens the natural grip of mountains, making them prone to erosion. When heavy rains strike, floodwaters carry sand, mud, and boulders downstream, resulting in widespread destruction,” she explained.