The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) marked World Earth Day in Mithi, Tharparkar. It hosted a seminar themed “Our Power, Our Planet”, bringing together government representatives, regulators, and civil society organisations.
Speaking as the chief guest, Dr Mahesh Kumar Malani highlighted the growing importance of sustainable practices in Thar. He noted that environmental responsibility must go hand in hand with development.
He also acknowledged the work of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company and Thar Foundation. Dr Malani appreciated their efforts to improve the quality of life in Thar. He noted that the Foundation’s inclusive approach, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It reflected, he said, a long-term commitment to the region and its people.
Under the Thar Million Tree Program, Thar Foundation has planted over 1.2 million trees in Block II. It has planted around 32,000 saplings in Mithi and Islamkot as part of the Thar Green Project. The Foundation has also established Pakistan’s first flora station in Thar, following a comprehensive flora and fauna study in 2023.
World Earth Day in Mithi Tharparkar Sindh:
In addition, more than 15,000 youth have been trained in environmental awareness and vulture conservation, contributing to stronger community engagement on climate and biodiversity.
Dr Mahesh stressed the need to protect natural resources while ensuring that local communities continue to benefit from ongoing progress in the Thar region.
Deputy Director of the Environmental Protection Agency Mirpurkhas, Ali Muhammad Rind, also appreciated the ongoing efforts to protect the environment and urged people to plant more trees, conserve water, avoid plastic bags, reduce electricity consumption, and adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.
The seminar concluded with a shared resolve among stakeholders to continue working together towards a more sustainable future for Thar.
Participants emphasised the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and communities to ensure that development remains responsible, inclusive, and environmentally conscious for the betterment of Tharparkar and its communities.
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