QUETTA: Adviser to the Chief Minister for Women Development, Dr. Rubaba Khan Buledi, has warned that climate change is emerging as one of the most serious threats facing Balochistan and the world, calling for urgent collective action to address the environmental crisis.
In her message on World Environment Day, Dr. Buledi noted that Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change despite contributing less than one percent of global carbon emissions.
She highlighted the environmental challenges confronting Balochistan, stating that more than 70 percent of the province consists of arid and semi-arid land, while groundwater levels are declining by two to three meters annually, posing a serious threat to water security and sustainable development.
The adviser said the province’s forest cover remains below five percent, significantly lower than the internationally recommended level of 25 percent. She emphasized the need for expanding afforestation efforts and protecting natural resources.
Dr. Buledi said the provincial government has introduced a Climate Change Policy and launched several environmental initiatives, including large-scale tree plantation campaigns, construction of check dams, and a ban on single-use plastic bags.
She urged citizens, particularly students and young people, to actively participate in the “Clean and Green Balochistan” campaign and contribute to environmental protection efforts.
According to Dr. Buledi, collective responsibility and sustainable environmental practices are essential to safeguarding future generations from the impacts of climate change.