GILGIT: Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting glaciers and strengthening efforts to shield the region from the growing impacts of climate change.
Speaking at a meeting on activating the Glacier Protection Authority and improving cooperation with international organisations working on glacier conservation, the Chief Minister said protecting glaciers was essential for a secure future.
He said the establishment of the Gilgit-Baltistan Glacier Protection Authority and allocation of resources, despite limited financial resources, reflected the government’s recognition of the importance of glacier conservation.
The Chief Minister said glaciers are a vital natural resource for the region and stressed the need for stronger measures to protect them from the impacts of climate change.
He said hybrid vehicles were being introduced in government departments as part of efforts to promote cleaner transportation and reduce dependence on conventional fuels.
Amjad Hussain also stressed the need to introduce green energy and alternative energy sources in Gilgit-Baltistan to protect forests and glaciers. He called for greater support from the international community to help the region address climate-related challenges.
The Chief Minister also directed Forest Secretary Subtain Ahmed to present a policy on medicinal plants before the Cabinet meeting.
He said conservation committees could be established for medicinal plants on the pattern of conservation mechanisms used for trophy hunting, helping promote sustainable use while protecting valuable natural resources.
The meeting highlighted the importance of stronger institutional capacity, international cooperation, clean energy and community-based conservation to protect Gilgit-Baltistan’s glaciers, forests and other natural resources in the face of climate change.
