Pakistan must act to protect glaciers: PM

March 21, 2025 (MLN): The need to take practical steps to protect glaciers has been emphasized by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, warning that their destruction poses a serious threat to the lives dependent on them.

In his message on World Day for Glaciers, he emphasized that glaciers are essential for sustaining life on Earth, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems and ensuring the supply of vital natural resources, particularly clean water.

Pakistan is home to over 13,000 glaciers, the largest concentration outside the polar regions.

However, the Prime Minister cautioned that due to climate change, rising temperatures, and shifting weather patterns, more than 10,000 glaciers are rapidly melting.

This accelerated melting is increasing the risk of floods and droughts, directly impacting rivers, agriculture, and the livelihoods of millions, as per the press release issued today.

As one of the countries most affected by climate change, Pakistan requires greater international cooperation for glacier monitoring programs, early warning systems, climate-resilient agricultural practices, and investment in alternative water storage solutions.

PM Shehbaz also called for the promotion of global ecotourism guidelines to prevent pollution and toxins from further damaging these vital natural assets.

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