Karachi’s Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) Community Park today became the focal point for urgent appeals on Earth Day, as officials and industry leaders convened to stress the imperative for concerted action against escalating environmental pollution and climate change.
Dost Muhammad Rahimoon, Adviser to the Sindh Chief Minister on Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development, reminded attendees that April 22nd, globally observed as Earth Day, serves as a stark annual reminder of the increasing dangers posed by ecological degradation. He asserted that combating environmental pollution remains a significant challenge for the region.
Mr Rahimoon underscored the necessity for coordinated endeavours from all societal segments. He articulated that effective environmental safeguarding is unattainable without joint contributions from governmental bodies, industrial sectors, and the general populace, while affirming the Sindh government”s active measures to protect the environment and enhance coastal zones.
The Adviser highlighted that the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) had organised various awareness initiatives, including afforestation campaigns, to commemorate the occasion. He stressed that planting saplings is critically important, as it not only improves ecological conditions but also guarantees a more secure future for succeeding generations.
KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput reinforced the notion of environmental preservation as a collective responsibility. He emphasised that in a densely populated urban centre like Karachi, every resident must contribute to ameliorating local environmental conditions.
Mr Rajput acknowledged the provincial government’s substantial strides in advancing ecological protection, green energy projects, and tree planting efforts. He reaffirmed the industrial community’s full backing for governmental endeavours aimed at achieving environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, he advocated for an intensified focus on infrastructure development, robust waste management frameworks, and efficient wastewater treatment schemes to foster a healthier and cleaner environment.
Junaid Naqi, Chairman of KATI’s Standing Committee on Tree Plantation, articulated the critical balance required between industrial expansion and ecological preservation. He underscored the imperative to facilitate industries in adopting eco-friendly technologies, championing green energy initiatives, and implementing a robust policy structure.
The event witnessed the participation of KATI office-bearers, SEPA officials, industrialists, and members of the public. Attendees actively planted saplings, symbolising their renewed commitment to contributing towards a greener Pakistan.