THE United Nations has named Pakistan’s Living Indus Initiative (LII) as one of the seven UN World Restoration Flagship programmes. This recognition indeed marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s environmental efforts, particularly concerning the restoration and preservation of the vital Indus River Basin.
The primary objective of the Living Indus Initiative is to spearhead comprehensive efforts aimed at revitalizing the ecological well-being of the Indus River. The initiative aims to safeguard, preserve and rehabilitate the diverse natural ecosystems found in the Indus Basin, which includes terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine environments. With this, the Living Indus Initiative becomes eligible for additional technical and financial support from the UN. This support will bolster the ambitious plans to restore 25 million hectares of the river basin by 2030, covering over 30 percent of Pakistan’s land area. The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated, considering the critical role the Indus Basin plays in sustaining life within Pakistan. Home to 195 mammal species, at least 668 bird species and over 150 fish species, including 22 endemic ones and the endangered Indus Blind Dolphin, the basin is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. Moreover, 95 percent of the population, all of the country’s agriculture and most industries depend on the Indus River, highlighting its paramount importance to Pakistan’s economy and livelihoods. Hence, the LII recognition by the UN is an important milestone and one expects the targets envisioned will be achieved within the given timeframe. As the country grapples with increasingly severe climate-related challenges, it becomes imperative to continue spearheading initiatives similar to the LII. By investing in comprehensive restoration efforts and implementing sustainable practices, we can mitigate the impacts of climate change and safeguard its natural resources for future generations. Furthermore, it is essential for the international community to rally behind Pakistan. Given the interconnected nature of environmental issues, collective action and support from the global community are crucial. Countries, organizations and stakeholders worldwide should be forthcoming in providing technical expertise, financial assistance and collaborative partnerships to assist Pakistan in tackling the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. Through concerted efforts and cooperation, we can work towards a more resilient and sustainable future for Pakistan and the entire planet.
