Sindh Environmental Protection Agency to Promote Environmental Sustainability

The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) recently hosted a seminar themed ‘Our Power, Our Planet’ in Mithi, Tharparkar, to mark Earth Day. The event was attended by representatives from government organizations, regulatory bodies, civil society organizations and local community members. Dr Mahesh Kumar Malani, as the chief guest, emphasized the need to promote environmental sustainability in Thar and he demanded that all development stakeholders be responsible towards the environment. The Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company together with Thar Foundation received his appreciation for their efforts to enhance life standards in Thar region.

Dr Malani explained that the Thar Foundation dedicated its resources to the region because it follows an inclusive approach which meets UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Foundation has planted over 1.2 million trees in Block II under the Thar Million Tree Program, along with 32,000 saplings in Mithi and Islamkot as part of the That Green Project. Also, the Foundation established Thar Pakistan’s first flora station following a comprehensive flora-fauna study in 2023. Additionally, it would contribute to engaging the community on climate and biodiversity more strongly as part of its overall efforts by training over 15,000 youth in environmental awareness and vulture conservation.

In conclusion, the seminar saw stakeholders coming together with a shared resolve of continuing to work towards a more sustainable future for Thar. According to CIO Bulletin, this clarion call by the SEPA would bear fruition only when the Government, industry, and communities collaborate to ensure that development is undertaken responsibly in an inclusive and environmentally conscious manner for the collective benefit of Tharparkar’s communities.