Islamabad: In a significant step toward combating climate change and promoting urban sustainability, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in collaboration with Climate Change Coordinator Romina Khurshid Alam has launched a 700-acre afforestation project near Bhara Kahu. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to transform Islamabad into a model smart city, complete with modern, eco-friendly infrastructure and services.

According to Zameen.Com, the agreement was signed amidst an outline of the CDA’s ongoing projects aimed at urban development, which include renewable energy initiatives, environmental health, advanced transport solutions, zero waste management, and water conservation efforts. These projects align with the broader goal of developing Islamabad into a smart, sustainable city, capable of addressing both current and future environmental challenges.

Romina Khurshid Alam highlighted the pressing challenges posed by climate change, such as increased heatwaves and urban flooding, which threaten lives, livelihoods, and public infrastructure. She emphasized the critical need for cities to adopt climate-resilient urbanization strategies that not only address immediate environmental concerns but also ensure long-term sustainability and improved quality of life.

Alam discussed the vulnerability of major Pakistani cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar to climate risks including rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and rising sea levels. She advocated for comprehensive climate adaptation strategies to mitigate these risks effectively.

The afforestation project is part of several green initiatives by the CDA, which also include expanding Islamabad’s green cover and flower plant cultivation to set a benchmark for urban sustainability in Pakistan. Furthermore, Alam proposed the relocation of paper mulberry trees to non-residential areas to reduce health risks associated with their pollen, which is a significant allergen for the city’s residents.

Alam also proposed renovations across Islamabad’s parks to increase tree plantations and promote biodiversity. These enhancements aim to improve recreational opportunities and green spaces for the public, aligning with broader environmental objectives.

This strategic initiative by the CDA and Romina Khurshid Alam represents a pivotal effort to position Islamabad at the forefront of sustainable urban development and climate resilience, serving as a model for other cities facing similar environmental challenges.