Karachi’s extreme heat: KPC workshop discusses policy gaps, lack of interest of govt departments

Participants at a training workshop held at the Karachi Press Club canvassed for climate-resilient urban planning measures, wider urban green spaces, and robust government policies to tackle Karachi's soaring temperatures and environmental decline. The recommendations stemmed from a session titled "Extreme Heat, Climate Change and Karachi," attended by environmental journalists and professionals who deliberated on policy gaps and the performance of government bodies tasked with development and ecological stewardship.

KPC Secretary Aslam Khan applauded the club's Environment Committee for facilitating training sessions on pressing climate matters and suggested holding such workshops bi-monthly to enhance journalists' grasp of environmental concerns. Yasir Hussain, Director of the Climate Action Centre, underscored the environmental repercussions of development and housing initiatives, emphasizing the destruction of agricultural land in Malir and the erosion of local livelihoods.

He advocated for a reevaluation of development projects from the standpoint of impacted communities and urged accelerated urban forestry, routine air-quality surveillance, and public disclosure of pollution statistics, coupled with steps to mitigate associated health hazards. Hussain implored authorities to devise integrated plans aimed at preserving Karachi's greenery and coolness, fostering eco-conscious housing, and curbing the utilization of concrete and other heat-absorbing substances.

He also proposed constructing cooling hubs to shield residents during extreme heatwaves, especially during power outages, and called for government incentives to promote the adoption of solar power as electricity prices surge and supply remains erratic. Hussain elaborated on the broader climate ramifications, noting that shifting weather patterns were disrupting agricultural cycles, while the swift drying of rivers, including the Indus, posed a significant environmental threat.

He cautioned that the Indus Delta was deteriorating, with its mangrove forests dwindling. He elucidated the interplay between climate change and El Niño, stressing the necessity for preparedness and collaborative efforts to confront the escalating climate risks confronting Karachi.