Islamabad event highlights glacier conservation for water security

Officials and experts gathered in Islamabad on Friday to mark 'World Day of Glaciers' and discussed the urgent need to protect Pakistan's glaciers amid climate change. They highlighted the crucial role of glaciers in providing water and ensuring economic stability. The event was organized by the Ministry of Climate Change in partnership with the UNDP Pakistan and other agencies. Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the chief guest, warned that climate change is a serious threat to Pakistan. He pointed out that glaciers provide over 60 percent of the country's water through glacial melt into the Indus River. Rising temperatures are leading to rapid glacier shrinkage, jeopardizing these water resources. Minister Aurangzeb mentioned that the water cycle in Pakistan is under significant strain, affecting billions globally from risks like Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). He praised the Everest-K2 Research Centre's work but called for immediate actions and promised financial support for climate initiatives. Dr. Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal, Minister of State for Climate Change, reiterated the government's commitment to glacier conservation. She noted that glaciers in regions like Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral are melting quickly, which threatens water security. She outlined government plans to implement a glacier conservation strategy, set up monitoring systems, and manage water resources better. She also highlighted collaborations with neighboring countries for joint research and data sharing on glaciers. Aisha Humera Moriani, Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change, described Pakistan as part of the 'Third Pole,' which holds the largest ice reserves. She warned that rising temperatures pose a long-term threat to water security. Dr. Samuel Rizk, the UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative, emphasized the socio-economic impacts of glacier loss. He noted a rise in poverty following the floods in 2022 and urged for urgent international financial support, estimating that Pakistan needs billions by 2030 to build climate resilience.