RAWALPINDI: Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) held a seminar to mark International Mountain Day 2025, focusing on the conservation of mountain flora and the ecological importance of Pakistan’s highland regions.
International Mountain Day seminar brings experts together
The event was jointly organized by the university’s Department of Botany and the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC). Scientists, academics, and environmental experts participated in discussions on protecting mountain ecosystems and biodiversity.
Pakistan’s mountain flora highlighted
Dean Faculty of Sciences Prof. Dr. Rahmatullah Qureshi told the seminar that Pakistan’s mountainous regions contain the highest concentration of endemic plant species in the country. He said Pakistan has nearly 6,000 flowering plant species, with around 500 endemic species largely found in the Himalayan, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges.
He noted that International Mountain Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on collective responsibility for conserving these ecosystems.
Climate change and biodiversity concerns discussed
Chief guest Prof. Dr. G. Raza Bhatti, former vice chancellor of Sheikh Ayaz University and former member of the Higher Education Commission, spoke on the growing threats to natural systems from climate change, habitat loss, and unsustainable human activity.
He emphasized biodiversity conservation and pointed to the role of university botanical gardens and herbaria in research, education, and preservation across Pakistan’s ecological zones.
Sustainable forest management emphasized
Keynote speaker Dr. Mahmood Nasir, former inspector general of forests, shared insights from his experience in forestry and environmental management. He highlighted the importance of sustainable forest practices, community involvement, and consistent environmental policies in protecting biodiversity.
Dr. Nasir also referred to the Forest Department’s role in conservation efforts and environmental protection.
Seminar concludes with focus on conservation strategies
International Mountain Day seminar concluded with discussions on practical and innovative approaches to safeguarding mountain flora and promoting ecological sustainability in mountain regions.
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