Gilgit-baltistan: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized concerted and vigorous efforts to effectively deal with the challenge of climate change.
Chairing a meeting in Gilgit on Monday regarding the damage caused by recent rains and floods in Gilgit-Baltistan, he directed the Ministry of Climate Change to adopt a more proactive approach.
He underscored the importance of generating funds to develop climate-resilient infrastructure.
The Prime Minister noted that although Pakistan contributes minimally to global emissions, it remains among the ten countries most severely affected by climate change.
He said that all regions of the country are facing the consequences of climate change, highlighting the critical role of the Ministry of Climate Change in dealing with this challenge. He was appreciative of NDMA's efforts for relief and rehabilitation in the flood affected areas.
The Prime Minister directed that a weather-related early warning system should be created for tourist destinations while the local populations should be resettled away from natural watercourses.
He said the NDMA and the Ministry of Climate Change will jointly set up an early warning and monitoring center in Gilgit-Baltistan in the next few months.
The Prime Minister said a survey of the damage to highways and other infrastructure should be conducted and communication links of all areas should be restored on a priority basis.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister was briefed about the recent rains, resulting flood situation and damages and the ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The meeting was also informed about the progress made on the installation of the Glacial Lake Outburst Early Warning System.
The Prime Minister directed the NDMA to complete the installation of the system in collaboration with the Ministry within the next two months.
The Prime Minister also directed the Minister for Water Resources to visit Gilgit-Baltistan to complete the consultation and planning for an improved water system.
On other development projects in GB, the Prime Minister said that Daanish Schools will be established in Gilgit Baltistan. He said that he is also personally overseeing the solar power project approved by the Central Development Working Party for Gilgit Baltistan. He said the project's approval will also be sought from ECNEC, assuring that it will be his utmost effort to complete the project at the earliest.