Environment challanges-and-response-of-pakistan

1. Environmental Challenges and Responses of Pakistan
Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 AN ERA OF ENVIRONMENTAL UNAWARENESS
The word “environment” was unfamiliar to people of Pakistan even after promulgation of the
1983 Environmental Protection Ordinance. Pakistan Environmental Protection Council-an apex
body for setting up environmental policies, met for the first time after 9 years since the Ordinance
became effective. Even the rules to operate the 1983 Ordinance could not be formulated in 13
years span till it was replaced with a new act of Parliament in 1997. Environmental institutions at
the federal and provincial levels were too weak to enforce the laws. Environmental awareness was
non-existence and whatever efforts exerted made a little change due to low literacy rate. In that
way, a decade passed without happening a significant event in the environmental history of
Pakistan since the 1983 Ordinance promulgated.
1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MOVEMENT
In 1992, heads of many countries signed Agenda 21 on the eve of Earth Summit in Rio de
Janeiro. The Summit was a global commitment to protect environment, and promote sustainable
development. That was a time when Pakistan prepared its National Conservation Strategy (NCS),
which showed path of sustainable development and determined environmental improvement
agenda for the country. At present, the environmental institutions have become custodian of
environmental protection and the civil society and media have assumed role of watchdog. The
government institutions, NGOs and the media made significant efforts in creating awareness
among all sectors of society. The Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural
Development recently carried out a mid term review of the achievements, impacts and prospects
of the NCS. An independent team of local and foreign experts conducted this task and concluded
that environmental awareness has been raised and institutions have been built. The review team
admitted that civil society institutions were strengthened and their influence enhanced.
The most significant achievements in the recent years are incorporation of environmental
concerns in government policies and initiation of process of Environmental Impact Assessment
(EIA) in the development schemes. In the forestry sector, a culture of collective effort has been
introduced and every sector of society-the institutions, schools and NGOs now realize that
planting of trees is their responsibility. Energy conservation, which has importance in the context
of emission of greenhouse gases and other pollutants but was not attracting attention in the past,
now considered a vital tool for the protection of environment. Fuel efficiency in transport, industry
and domestic sector has been taken into Government policies and plans.
1.3 TIME TO TRANSLATE POLICIES INTO ACTIONS

2. After the NCS and raising environmental awareness in the country, the next challenging task
before the Ministry was to translate environmental policies into actions. Different organization
within and outside the Ministry implemented environmental projects but that approach was
fragmented. After the Mid-Term Review of the NCS, the Ministry developed a National
Environmental Action Plan (NEAP) which focuses on four core areas viz. clean air; clean water;
solid waste management; and echo-system management. An integrated approach with
involvement of provincial and local government has been adopted to implement the plan.
CHAPTER 2
POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Pakistan’s Environmental Policy is based on participatory approach to achieving objectives of
sustainable development through legally, administratively and technically sound institutions.
2.2 NATIONAL CONSERVATION STRATEGY
The conservation challenge in Pakistan, as in the most of the developing world, is to develop
strategies that will meet the resource needs of the local communities while also protecting and
preserving the natural resources and Mother Nature. The National Conservation Strategy of
Pakistan was adopted in 1992 after a long and protracted process of consultation with
governmental agencies, academia, NGOs, and civil society organizations engaged in the domain
of the natural resource conservation, environmental preservation and sustainable development.
The National Conservation Strategy of the Government of Pakistan provides a broad framework
for addressing environmental concerns in the country. It comprises 14 core areas viz. integrating
population and environment programmes, supporting institutions for the common resources,
preserving cultural heritage, preventing and abating pollution, conservation of bio-diversity,
increasing energy efficiency, restoring range land and improving livestock, maintaining the soil in
croplands, increasing irrigation efficiency, protecting watersheds, supporting forestry and
plantations and protecting water bodies and sustaining fisheries, developing and deploying
renewable, and Managing urban waste. The NCS identifies a need for concrete action in 14 core
programmes areas. Under the aegis of the Cabinet Implementation Committee, the NCS Plan of
Action/Programme has been divided into four components viz. strengthening of institutions,
creation of supportive framework of regulation and economic incentives, broad based
communications campaign of mass awareness and the implementation of projects in NCS core
areas. The National Conservation Strategy Unit of Ministry of Environment, Local Government
and Rural Development serves as the Secretariat for the implementation of the National
Conservation Strategy and it’s Plan of Action. Keeping in view the wider range and scope of the
activities in the domain of the NCS implementation it was felt substantive that the Cabinet
Committee for Implementation of NCS is reviewed and made active. Hence the Cabinet
Committee was reconstituted and notified in April 2000.

3. 2.3 MID-TERM REVIEW OF NCS
Given the life of the NCS implementation since 1992, it became imperative to carry out a
Mid Term Review (MTR). The process of the MTR was initiated in late 1999 and Mid Term
Review (MTR) of the National Conservation Strategy (NCS) was carried out in May-June 2000 by
an independent review team comprising local and foreign experts. The MTR report concludes that
achievements under the NCS have been primarily awareness raising and institution building and
strengthened civil society institutions and their influence. The MTR emphasized on improvement
in implementation capacity and need to reinvigorating and refocusing through development of an
NCS-2 with more focused approach to serve as Pakistan's Sustainable Development Strategy for
2002-2012 with a greater emphasis on poverty reduction and economic development in addition to
environmental sustainability.
In terms of investment, NCS Mid-Term Review indicated that a total investment of Rs. 77
billion was realized in 9 years against Rs. 150 billion over a period of 10 years envisaged in the
NCS.
2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
The Pakistan Environmental Protection Act was enacted on 6th December 1997 to provide
for the protection, conservation, rehabilitation and improvement of environment, for the
prevention and control of pollution, and promotion of sustainable development. The Act
particularly focuses on implementation of Council’s policies, delegation of powers to government
agencies, enforcement of National Environmental Quality Standards, introduction of EIA/IEE
review procedures/system, regulatory regime for hazardous substances/wastes, resource
generation through establishment of Provincial Sustainable Development Fund and levy of
Pollution Charge and providing appellant forum for environmental cases.
OPERATIONALIZATION OF ACT
Soon after the enactment of new law, Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural
Development set its priorities to operationalize its provisions. The following series of actions were
taken:
Drafting and notifying rules and regulations under section 31 and 33
The following rules and regulations have so far been finalized in consultation with
stakeholders:
i) National Environmental Quality Standards (Self-monitoring and Reporting by
Industries) Rules, 2001
ii) Environmental Samples Rules, 2001
iii) Provincial Sustainable Development Fund (Procedure ) Rules, 2001
iv) Provincial Sustainable Development Fund (Utilization) Rules, 2001
v) Pollution Charge for Industry (Calculation and Collection )Rules, 2001

4. vi) Composition of Offences and Payment of Administrative Penalty Rules 2000
vii) Hazardous Substances Rules, 2000
viii) National Environmental Quality Standards (Environmental Laboratories
Certification) Regulations, 2000
ix) Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Review of IEE/EIA Regulations,
2000)
While the two regulations viz. Environmental Laboratories Certification Regulations and
Review of IEE/EIA Regulations are in place, all the other rules are being notified.
Delegation of Powers to Provincial Governments under section 26
Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development had delegated its
functions and powers of it and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency under section 26 of
the Act to the Provincial Governments. The Provincial Governments have further delegated these
powers and functions to Environmental Protection Agencies and also planning to sub-delegate
selected powers to the local government.
Establishment of Environmental Tribunals under section 20
The Federal Government has established two Environmental Tribunals-one each in Karachi
and Lahore. The Karachi Tribunal has jurisdiction over the Sindh and Balochistan provinces while
Lahore Tribunal covers Punjab and NWFP Provinces. It is intended to establish three more
Tribunals so as to have independent Tribunal in each province and in the federal capital.
Designation of Environmental Magistrates under section 24
The Federal and Provincial Governments have designated senior civil judges as
Environmental Magistrates to take all contraventions punishable in respect of handling of
hazardous substances and pollution caused by motor vehicles.
Certification of Environmental Laboratory under section 6(1)(k)
An Environmental Laboratory Certification Regulation 2000 has been notified whereby a
network of technically sound laboratories is being established through out the country. The
certified laboratories will be authorized to test environmental samples and assist public and private
sector to get their levels of emissions tested.
Establishment of Sustainable Development Board/Fund
The Governments of Punjab, NWFP and Balochistan have reported establishment of
Sustainable Development Board /Fund under section 9 and 10 of the Act. The Governors of
NWFP and Balochistan have approved a grant of Rs. 5.0 million for the Sustainable Development
Fund in their respective province.

5. CHAPTER 3
INSTITUTIONAL SETUP
3.1 THE MINISTRY
The Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development, which was earlier
named as Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Wildlife, was established in 1994. A Federal
Minister heads the Ministry while the Secretary holds the administrative charge. Additional
Secretary is responsible for different sections dealing with environment, forestry, local
government and urban affairs. A National Conservation Unit is responsible for coordination of
implementation of the country’s Conservation Strategy. The Local Government Wing of the
Ministry comprises of Local Government and Rural Development sections. The Local
Government deals with the matters pertaining to new local government system introduced on 14th
August 2001. The Rural Development side deals with the infrastructure development programmes
primarily in rural areas such as Khushhal Pakistan and donor assisted rural access roads projects.
Ministry has a web site http://www.environment.gov.pk which contains useful information
about its charter, legislation, programmes, news/events and implementation status of international
conventions and protocols.
3.2 PAKISTAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION COUNCIL
The Pakistan Environmental Protection Council (PEPC) was first constituted in 1984 under
section 3 of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Ordinance, 1983 with President of Pakistan as
its Chairman. In 1994, an amendment was made in the Ordinance to provide for the Prime
Minister or his nominee to be the head of the Council. The Council was reconstituted after
enactment of the new law i.e. Pakistan Environmental Act 1997. Pakistan Environmental
Protection Council is an apex statutory body. The Chief Executive is the Chairperson of the
Council and the Federal Minister for Environment, Local Government and Rural Development as
its Vice Chairperson and Governors of all the provinces are its members besides others. The
Council is represented by trade and industry, leading NGOs, educational intuitions,
experts, journalists and concerned ministries.
FUNCTIONS OF COUNCIL
The Major functions of the Council include:
· Coordinate and supervise enforcement of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act;
· Approve comprehensive national environmental policies and ensure their implementation
within framework of a national conservation strategy as may be approved by the Federal
Government from time to time;
· Approve the National Environmental Quality Standards;

6. · Provide guidelines for the protection and conservation of species, habitats and biodiversity
in general and for conservation of renewable and non-renewable resources;
· Coordinate integration of the principles and concerns of sustainable development into
national development plans and policies; and
· Consider the national environment report and give appropriate directions thereof.
3.3 ATTACHED DEPARTMENTS
PAKISTAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (PAK-EPA)
Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency was created with thin staff and meager resources
under the 1983 Ordinance. This department is responsible for pollution control. After enactment
of 1997 Act, the functions and responsibilities of the department enhanced and this department
was strengthened technically and logistically to meet the environmental challenges. Pak-EPA
also provide technical support to the Ministry of Environment.
ENERGY CONSERVATION (ENERCON)
ENERCON was created in 1986 to serve all energy conservation activities, including policy
formulation. ENERCON soon thereafter began its activities as the Government’s implementing
body for the National Energy Conservation Plan. Under
the plan, ENERCON was charged with a wide range of responsibilities including: (i)
formulating energy conservation programmes in all the main energy consuming sectors
(ii)planning and initiating energy conservation actions nationwide; (iii) outlining policy guidelines
to support energy conservation initiatives; (iv) developing a comprehensive data base on
opportunities for energy conservation; (v) supporting training activities on energy conservation
applications; (vi) undertaking field research and pilot demonstration activities on specific energy
conservation options and technologies; and (vii) monitoring the implementation of conservation
programs by other public and/or private sector entities.
ENERCON has been successful in building up a capability for collecting data, undertaking
various forms of field research to identify energy saving opportunities and initiating a number of
activities (e.g. information dissemination and outreach, training etc.) to raise public awareness.
ENERCON has been able to “identify” opportunities that would yield over Rs. 3500 million in
energy savings, and also to implement a series of specific energy conservation measures as
targeted technical services to enable end-users in key sectors to realize about one third of the
potential savings. ENERCON’s comprehensive approach to energy conservation-which targets all
sectors of the economy- is unique among developing countries: it applies a dynamic combination
of strategies, including technical assistance, awareness campaigns and financial incentives. This
approach has contributed to the success of ENERCON’s field research and pilot demonstration
activities and has made Pakistan’s energy conservation efforts a model for other developing
countries.

7. PAKISTAN FOREST INSTITUTE
The Pakistan Forest Institute, Peshawar (PFI) is a national organization mandated for training
and research in forestry and allied disciplines, for the conservation and management of natural
renewable resources in the country. It was established in 1947 and at present is functioning as an
attached department to the Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development,
Islamabad. For these reasons, it has got an international recognition as well as a forestry institution
of regional importance. Since its inception, the research activities of PFI remained focused mainly
on applied research and development of technology packages for the promotion and scientific
management of natural renewable resources. In this regard a major break through has been
achieved in dry-zone afforestation techniques, biological rehabilitation of degraded lands,
rehabilitation of waterlogged and saline areas to increase their productivity and combat
desertification.
NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR CONSERVATION OF WILDLIFE (NCCW)
This organization was established in July 1974 and is working under the guidance of
Inspector General of Forests formulate appropriate policies for the conservation of wildlife,
coordinate implementation of the policies by the Provinces and liaison with International Agencies
and non-Government Societies for conservation of wildlife. NCCW tried to fulfill its functions
efficiently, during the last one and half year. The department gets policy guidelines from the
Council headed by the Minister with representation of civil society and provincial wildlife
department. NCCW coordinates the efforts of Provincial Wildlife Departments for wildlife
conservation. In addition, it also fulfills the obligations of conventions and protocols to which
Government of Pakistan is a signatory.
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY DEPARTMENT
Zoological Survey Department was established in 1948 and is now functioning as an attached
department of the Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development with the
objectives to obtain information on distribution and population dynamics of faunal species; set up
and maintain standard zoological collections for reference; set up Zoological Museum for
reference in provinces with emphasis on the fauna of the region; undertake research on the
ecology, biology, physiology and biochemistry of important marine animals; advise the
government on all zoological matters including conservation, management, export and import of
wildlife; and impart wildlife education and create public awareness about wildlife conservation.
A.H. NATIONAL CENTRE FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND MUNICIPAL
ADMINISTRATION
Akhtar Hameed Khan National Centre for Rural Development and Municipal Administration
(AHK NCRD & MA) was established as a federal training and research institution in the year
1979. It was declared as an attached department of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural
Development in 1988 and was re-named as Akhtar Hameed Khan National Centre for Rural
Development & Municipal Administration (AHK NCRD & MA) in the year 2000 in recognition

8. of invaluable services rendered by Late Dr. Akhtar Hameed Khan for the cause of community
development, strengthening of civil society and socio-economic empowerment of the poor and
marginalized people living in informal settlements in Pakistan. The main functions of this
Institution is training and research in the field of Local Government, Rural Development, and
allied disciplines i.e. Training Courses; Conferences, Seminars and Workshops; Research; Liaison
with International Agencies and Organizations; Policy Support to the Ministry; Collaboration with
Provincial Local Govt.& Rural Development Academies.
CHAPTER 4
STATE OF ENVIRONMENT
4.1 BASIC FACTS
Pakistan is basically an agricultural country with a population of 138 million, 65% of which
lives in the rural areas. Literacy rate is approximately 30%. Access of rural population to safe
drinking water is 48% while only 23% rural population has sanitation facilities. Agriculture, the
largest economic sector, contributes 25% to GDP. Out of a reported area of 59.32 million hectares,
only 21.92 million hectares is cultivated while 24.62 million hectares is not available for
cultivation due to one or the other reasons. Excessive use of fertilizer, pesticides and aerial spray
leads to serious environmental and health problems for rural community and wildlife.
Development schemes like construction of roads, electrification, setting up of industry and
sometimes mega projects like construction of dams and oil and gas exploration not only cause
environmental degradation but also uproot rural community
According to a study conducted by Brandon of World Bank in 1992-1993 and later updated
by Mathew in 1997, the environmental cost to Pakistan economy in six sectors was estimated as
US $ 1.8 billion. The cost to economy in terms of urban air pollution was estimated US $ 369
million per year. This cost was associated with expenditures on health, economic and production
loss due to absentees in factories, offices and schools.
AIR POLLUTION
Pollution control/abatement is one of the core areas of the Pakistan National Conservation
Strategy (NCS) approved by the Government. One of the emerging environmental issues is
gradation of ambient air quality particularly in urban areas. Various surveys show that air
pollution levels in cities have either crossed safe limits or have reached the threshold values. The
most serious issue of air quality in Pakistan is the presence of excessive suspended particulate
matters (SPM) present in the ambient air. The major sources of SPM are vehicles, industry,
burning of solid waste, brick kilns and natural dust.
Pakistan is an arid country with rainfall ranging as low as 80 mm in the south to as high as
1600 mm in the north. Moreover, the wind speed, which is essential for flushing of pollution, is

9. also low in our cities. In the dry and low wind days, natural dust and anthrapogenic pollution,
when generated in access, takes longer time to disperse off. Over the last few years average
rainfall has declined in many parts of the country. The levels of suspended particulate matters and
other pollutants, which have active co-relation with meteorological conditions, are likely to
increase if the dry air condition prevails.
Recently, Pakistan EPA with the assistance of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
carried out ambient air quality study in three major cities namely Lahore; Rawalpindi; and
Islamabad to assess pollution levels in traffic-congested areas. The study revealed that the average
suspended particulate matters in our cities were 6.4 times higher than WHO Guidelines and 3.8
times higher than Japanese standards. The levels of Sulphur Dioxide, Oxides of Nitrogen and
Carbon Monoxide were found in excess of acceptable standards in some areas but the average
levels were found below WHO guidelines. Presence of such a high levels of suspended particulate
matters in the air is certainly a matter of concern due to its serious health implications for public.
INCREASING TRAFFIC TRENDS
In Pakistan, the number of vehicles have jumped from 0.8 million to about 4.0 million within
20 years showing an overall increase of more than 400%. The average compound growth of
vehicles is about 11 percent per annum. Since 1980, the maximum growth has been seen in
2-stroke vehicles i.e delivery vans which is 1751%, followed by
Motor cycles 541% and Rickshaws 159%. According to a World Bank study carried out in
Bangladesh and India, the major cause of suspended particulate matters was due to 2- stroke
vehicles using straight mineral oil (instead of 2T oil) as lubricant and use of excessive quantity of
lubricant (12%) instead of 2% for motor cycles and 3% for three wheelers.
Diesel trucks and buses have also increased at an alarming rate of 200-300% since 1980.
Diesel vehicles due to overloading, faulty injection nozzles and weak engine emit excessive
graphitic carbon (visible smoke). This situation is very common in our country. Diesel Particulate
Filter (DPF), which is a device used in many countries to control emission in diesel vehicles,
cannot be used in Pakistan as it requires low sulphur diesel i.e 0.05-0.5% sulphur (available diesel
in market contains 1% sulphur).
USE OF LEADED PETROL
Another serious issue is that of high content of lead in petrol, which presently is 0.35
gram/liter. Different studies carried out by Pakistan Medical and Dental Association and Agha
Khan Medical Hospital have confirmed presence of high concentration of blood lead levels in
school children, traffic police and adults. Road side air samples also showed high lead in air.
Many countries of the region including Bangladesh, China, India, Japan, Philippines, Thailand and
almost all Europeans countries have banned lead in gasoline.
WATER POLLUTION

10. Per capita water availability in Pakistan has been decreasing at an alarming rate. In 1951 per
capita availability was 53,000 cubic meter which has now decreased to 12000 cubic meter just
touching water scarcity level of 1000 cubic meter (World Bank study). The existing water
resources are under threat due to untreated discharge of municipal and industrial wastes to river
and other surface water reservoirs. Municipal water is treated only in two cities viz. Karachi and
Islamabad though the capacity of these treatment plants is much less than the actual quantum of
wastewater. The effluent of other cities mostly dumped into the rivers having high BOD
(Biological Oxygen Demand) and COD (Chemicals Oxygen Demand). A recent study conducted
by Pak-EPA indicated BOD of river Ravi as high as 300 mg/l as compared to acceptable limit of 9
mg/l.
Our industry imports chemicals worth Rs 4,500 million and dyes/colors worth Rs. 5,000
million every year. About 525 types of chemicals are being imported in the country for use in
different processing industries. Import data of 1997-98 indicates that industry imported 3,000
tonnes of formic acid (a carcinogenic chemical), 2,052 tonnes phenols, 4,200 tonnes isocyanides,
31 tonnes mercury, 22,817 tonnes inks/dyes, 234 tonnes Arsenic, 1,615 tonnes chromium salt and
so on. Local production of chemicals is limited to only a few categories viz. Soda ash, sulphuric
acid, caustic soda, chlorine, fertilizers, pesticides, paint/varnishes and polishes and creams. All
these chemicals are entering into the environment every year. Their processing generates wastes
and pose potential risk to public health.
A recent survey of 150 industrial units in five potentially toxic groups completed by EPAs in
the three provinces, reported extreme deviation from the levels prescribed in the National
Environmental Quality Standards. Another survey carried out by Federal Environmental
Protection Agency showed that tanneries located in Kasure and Sialkot are discharging effluent
with chrome concentration ranging between 182-222 mg/litre against standards of
1 mg/litre and Chemical Oxygen demand ranging between 5002-7320 mg/litre against limit of
150 mg/litre prescribed in the NEQS. A chromium salt producing unit near Rawalpindi is
reportedly discharging chromium rich effluent in a water stream causing severe implications for
residents of the adjacent areas. In such case, we have to differentiate between NEQS violation and
environmental crime.
LAND POLLUTION
Pakistan generates 47,920 tonnes of solid wastes per day (urban waste: 19,190 tonnes rural:
28,730 tonnes). About 3,600 tonnes of chemical fertilizer is annually produced in the country
while 18,000 tonnes of pesticides are imported each year. Collection efficiency of solid wastes is
about 54% in the urban centers. A total of 9856 industries surveyed showed that they were
generating 21,175 tonnes of waste. These included chemicals, fertilizers, tanneries and textile
units. Since none of the city in Pakistan has proper waste collection and disposal system for
municipal or hazardous waste, land in urban areas is getting polluted. Excessive use of pesticides
has adversely affected biomass of agriculture land. According to NCS report 96% land has low
biomass
DEFORESTATION

11. According to Forestry Sector Master Plan (GoP), forests, scrub and trees on farmlands cover
4.2 million hectares or 4.8% of the country. The deforestation rate has been estimated as 0.2-0.5%
per annum-the world’s second highest rate of deforestation. Two recent studies revealed that
Pakistan’s woody biomass is declining at a rate of 4-6% per year. The mangrove forests of Indus
delta show a similarly dramatic decline. The principal cause of deforestation is the consumption of
fuel wood and timber.
. HIGH ENERGY CONSUMPTION
Prosperity of a nation is function of its energy self-dependence. We on the other hand, are
heavily dependent on imported oil and spend around 3 billion US dollars on oil importation.
Coupled with this, our energy use in characterized by high degree of waste and inefficiency as we
have one of the highest energy intensity ratios in the world. The spiraling energy costs continue to
dampen the entire gamut of economic activity. This trend needs to be controlled if the country is
to achieve the desirable GDP growth levels.
Energy Conservation offers an opportunity that presents a workable solution to the above
problems. It is cost-effective alternate to conventional energy supply options; it has short gestation
periods; it results in substantial foreign exchange savings and it provides a strong news sustainable
development. Energy Conservation also offers a means to ensure equitable access to energy to all
sections of population and thereby provides a basic element of the effort to combat poverty.
Energy Conservation has been given the name of “Fifth Fuel”. Energy Conservation is an
intelligent and judicious use of energy without sacrificing productivity, quality and comfort.
URBANIZATION
The urbanization rate (4.5% per annum) is quite alarming and leading to expansion of cities
and towns. The NCS envisaged that if the current trends were not reversed, our cities will be
predominant urban in the second decade of the 21st Century.
LOSS OF BIODIVERSITY
The ecological trend of greatest concern in the country is the continuing loss, fragmentation
and degradation of natural habitats. This is affecting with out exception forests, rangelands, and
freshwater and marine ecosystem. Of equal concern is the decline in many native species of
animals and plants. Some species are already extinct, many are internationally threatened, and
more still are of national concern. The degradation of agro-ecosystems and the accelerating loss of
domestic genetic diversity are areas that need to be looked into (Biodiversity Action Plan of
Pakistan 2000).
There are six fundamental causes of loss of biodiversity:
· The unsustainably high rate of human population growth and consumption

12. · Economic systems that fail to value the environment and its resources
· Inequity in the ownership, management and flow of benefits from both use
and conservation of biological resources;
· Deficiencies in knowledge and its application;
· Legal and institutional systems that promote unsustainable exploitation; and
· The steadily narrowing spectrum of traded products from agriculture, forestry and fisheries.
VANISHING WILDLIFE
The wildlife experts are of the view that at least four mammal species are known to have
extinct from Pakistan within the last 400 years. These include tiger, swamp deer, lion and Indian
one-horned rhinoceros. In the recent decade, cheetah and hungul have also extinct. Blackbuck and
Asiatic wild ass are believed to be threatened with extinction in Pakistan.
IMPLICATION OF TRADE -ENVIRONMENT LINKAGE
With the movement of trade liberalization, WTO established trade linkages with environment.
International standards like ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 are recognized as quality criteria for
products and environmental performance. International market demands environment-friendly
products but Pakistani export industry is not tuned to meet this challenge and seek incentives from
the government to comply with the environmental standards. Government and industrial
associations are striving to create awareness among entrepreneurs and promoting adoption of ISO
standards. On the other hand, industrial sector in Pakistan has serious problem of capital
investment due to recession. There is no line of credit available for adoption of ISO standards or
procurement of anti-pollution technology.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Average global temperature has been rising for more than a century, either as a result of
natural fluctuation or from the build-up of greenhouse gases. Climate change is likely to reduce
biodiversity, and the goods and services that ecosystem supply to Pakistan by:
· Increasing desertification in arid and semi-arid areas;
· Increasing seawater intrusion of the Indus delta with a consequent
reduction in mangrove cover, and a loss of sandy beaches;
· Increasing summer flooding in monsoon-affected areas;
· The retreat of glaciers and an upwards shift in ecological zones in the

13. Himalaya-Hindu Kush-Karakorum ranges;
· The desiccation and die-back of forests;
· Reduced agricultural production; and
· Changes in marine fisheries.
DROUGHT
Pakistan is one of the countries affected by the drought conditions prevailing in certain parts
of south and central Asia. An estimated number of 42 million people have been affected and the
extent of damage has been estimated at over one billion dollars. Worst hit are the 32 districts of
the country, which rely on seasonal rains for crop irrigation. The wheat crop in these districts has
been damaged by 70 percent and millions of domestic and farm animals have died. Effects of
water scarcity in Sindh have not only threatened crop yields, they have even resulted in lowering
the supply of drinking water to urban areas including Karachi. Similarly in the case of the
Balochistan province, in many cities, including its capital, Quetta, water table has receded by up to
3 m adversely affecting the discharge of bore-wells supplying drinking water to these cities.
INVOLUNTARY RESETTLEMENT
In Pakistan, a number of laws give and protected the proprietary rights, and the rights to
access to and use of natural resources. Laws have also been promulgated at different occasions for
different purposes including urban and rural development, and for establishment of authorities for
implementation of these development programmes that include acquisition of private properties
for the development of these programmes.
The Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (LLA) has been the most commonly used law for acquisition
of land and other properties for development projects. Although it lays down detailed procedures
for the acquisition of private properties for public purposes and their compensation, the LAA or
any other law of the land, however, does not cover resettlement and rehabilitation of persons in a
manner perceived today.
CHAPTER 5
RESPONSES
5.1 LANDMARK POLICY DECISIONS OF THE COUNCIL
The Council has held nine meetings since it's inception and took decisions of national
importance to protect and conserve country’s environment. The Council approved the National
Environmental Quality Standards, set its rules and made advances in dealing with a
variety of critical national environmental issues, such as deforestation, industrial and
vehicular pollution and hazardous/ hospital land wastes. The council succeeded in incorporating

14. environmental concerns in governmental policies and plans. In the ninth meeting held under the
chairmanship of Gen. Pervez Musharraf, President/Chief Executive of Pakistan approved
a National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP) with the aim to improve environmental conditions
in the country with special emphasis on providing clean air; clean water; solid waste management;
and eco-system management. The Councils directives are reproduced below:
(i) Environmental protection should be treated as a movement by active participation of
Government, civil society and private sector. Education, training and mass awareness would be
supported to create required public pressure for greening of industry and its products. Government
agencies should set examples by selective interventions with high demonstrative value.
(ii) All government policies in different sectors of economy like power, trade, fisheries,
agriculture, education shall be made sensitive to environmental consideration. Environmental
protection will be an integral part of these policies before these are considered and approved by
the Government
(iii) All future development projects having potential adverse effect on environment shall be
subjected to Environmental Impact Assessment, review and approval procedures. For this purpose,
capacity of all environmental regulatory agencies shall be strengthened. All projects in the private
sector presented for investment to the banks and national development financial institutions shall
be subjected to environmental screening and review.
(iv) An Environmental Fund shall be established at the Federal level to support and finance
decisions and directives of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Council to give required
leverage to the implementation and follow-up of the Council decision. The Federal Government
will provide seed money for its establishment.
(v) Forest cover in the country may be gradually increased to attain a reasonable level of
these resources for ecological, water and other socio-economic development needs.
(vi) Proper management of National Parks should be emphasized and a phased programme
for bringing additional areas under National Parks may be prepared.
(vii) A pilot programme for clean-up of selected Lakes and Rivers, Cities and Towns, and
Villages may be initiated and financed with the active participation of the Provincial Governments
and involvement of civic agencies, NGOs private sector.
(viii) Ministry of Information and Media Development shall allocate more time for
environmental awareness. In this regard, support of the private and corporate sector shall also be
encouraged.
(ix) A national award shall be instituted for outstanding accomplishments in the field of
environment.
5.2 INVESTMENT IN NCS IMPLEMENTATION

15. Pakistan’s NCS envisaged an investment of Rs. 150 billion over the ten years period. The
Mid-term review of the NCS revealed that the actual investment of Rs. 77 billion was realized in
14 core areas over 9 years period. The detail is given below:
INVESTMENTIN NCS CORE AREAS (SECTOR WISE)
Rs. in million
NCS Core Area Total Allocation
Utilization % Utilized
Core Area1 - Maintaining soil in croplands 20887.156
6956.678 33%
Core Area 2 –Increasing Irrigation Efficiency 23304.919
21387.436 92%
Core area 3 – Protecting Watersheds 1231.668
1141.051 93%
Core area 4 – Supporting Forestry and Plantation 7387.087
6272.356 85%
Core area 5 – Restoring Rangelands and Improving
Livestock 2699.588
2024.588 75%
Core area 6 – Protecting Water Bodies and Sustaining
Fisheries 3550.123
3087.100 87%
Core area 7 – Conserving Biodiversity 996.420
951.982 96%
Core area 8 – Increasing Energy Efficiency 2542.892
2279.959 90%

16. Core area 9 – Developing and Deploying Renewables 741.284
648.738 88%
Core area 10 – Preventing and Abating Pollution1 428.610
985.206 69%
Core area 11 – Managing Urban Wastes 870.367
450.145 52%
Core area 12 – Supporting Institutions for Common
Resources 6751.385
6187.719 92%
Core area 13 – Integrating Population and Environment
Programme 3495.563
3466.248 99%
Core area 14 – Preserving Cultural Heritage 941.103
758.008 81%
INVESTMENT IN NCS CORE AREAS (PROVINCE WISE)
Total
Allocation Utilization % Utilized
FederalLevel 941.103
758.088 81%
Punjab 15744.293
14570.909 93%
Sindh 6581.443
5827.073 89%
NWFP 10407.475
8884.334 85%
Balochistan 6755.480
4615.208 68%

17. Northern
Areas 434.953
419.005 96%
AJK 5940.498
5009.544 84%
The above tables show that maximum investment has been made in the agriculture and
forestry sector. Punjab has made the highest investment in the NCS core areas followed by NWFP,
Sindh, AJK, Balochistan, Federal government and Northern areas.
5.3 EIA/IEE OF DEVELOPMENT SCHEMES INITIATED
Introducing EIA culture in a country like Pakistan was a difficult and challenging task
particularly when the environmental institutions were weak and awareness level was low. It is
quite encouraging that now the EIA process has begun in the country in an organized manner after
notification of EIA Regulations 2000 and availability of IEE/EIA reports and review Guidelines
(developed through a long consultative process). The Federal and Provincial EPAs have
developed their capacity to review and issue environmental clearances. The review process is
carried out through public participation. Further capacity of EPAs being enhanced through on the
job training.
The EIA process has further augmented after the Chief Executive’s directive to financial
institutions on restriction of loan without environmental clearance from concerned institution.
Media role on highlighting projects without EIA is a motive force.
Pak-EPA has developed the following sector specific EIA guidelines to facilitate project
proponents:
· Major thermal power stations · Major roads
· Major chemical and manufacturing plants · Oil and gas exploration and production
· New township development · Water supply projects
· Industrial estates · Municipal waste disposal
· Sewerage schemes
5.4 DEVELOPMENT OF RESETTLEMENT POLICY
So far there was no specific policy for resettlement and rehabilitation of person and
community whose properties are acquired for development purposes. Ministry of Environment,
Local Government and Rural Development has formulated a draft policy on involuntary
resettlement to safe guard livelihoods of non-titled community living in the project area. The
policy is supported by detailed technical guidelines for Planning and Implementation of

18. Resettlement. Based on the draft policy a resettlement of affected person ordinance has also been
worked out which will supplement the existing Land Acquisition Act, 1894. The draft policy and
the ordinance are in the consultative process with the provincial governments and other
stakeholders.
5.5 INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION CONTROL
STRATEGY FOR EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY STANDARDS
Bringing industrial pollution levels of existing industry to the limits specified in the National
Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS) is one of the priority areas of the Council and the
Ministry. After the establishment of NEQS, initial response of industrial sector to pollution
control was discouraging perhaps due to unawareness, non-availability of indigenous technology
and lack of resources Changing minds-set and convincing industrial community of the harmful
effects of emission was a difficult task. A two pronged approach is being adopted to effectively
implement the NEQS viz. introduction of self-monitoring and reporting system coupled with
development of Environmental Improvement Plans (EIPs); The second approach is to enforce the
NEQS through issuance of Environmental Protection Orders under section 16 of the Act. The
former is a “common sense approach” whereby the industry will voluntarily provide their levels of
pollution to EPAs on regular basis and meantime develop their EIPs as part of future planning.
The later is a “command and control approach” for those industries neither willing to join
self-monitoring programme nor desirous to improve their environmental conditions.
On the advise of the Council, the Ministry of Environment opened dialogue with the industry.
Consequently, the industry which was initially reluctant to adopt environmental measures soon
realized that pollution control is not a luxury but essential for the market economy and public
health. The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry and other industrial
associations took initiative and created environmental cells within their organizations. FPCCI,
with the assistance of Dutch funding, initiated Environment Technology Programme for Industry
(ETPI) at a cost of Rs. 260 million. This was perhaps the first break through which instigated
industrial units to make investment in the environmental improvement. Industry claims that an
investment of Rs. 2700 million has been realized during the last four years and they planned
further improvement of Rs.1740 million in the near future. Despite these achievements, extra
efforts are still required to promote green productivity and adoption of ISO 14000. The linkages
are being strengthened between trade and environment to promote manufacture of
environment-friendly products for competing international export market.
LEVY OF POLLUTION CHARGE
After several meetings with trade and industry and the provincial governments consensus was
built on the mechanism of calculation, collection and deposition of Pollution Charge. The
pollution charge will be deposited in Sustainable Development Fund. The Government of Punjab
and NWFP has officially communicated their consent to the proposed mechanism while the
government of Sindh and Balochistan have not taken action despite reminders.

19. ESTABLISHMENT OF SAMPLING PROCEDURES AND ANALYTICAL
METHODS FOR TESTING
The Council constituted a technical sub-committee to propose sampling and analytical
methods. Later on these methods were made part of the self-monitoring and reporting package.
The industry is following these methods for testing their effluent. Pak-EPA has been directed to
review and update these methods from time to time.
IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS OF ENVIRONMENTAL
STANDARDS COMMITTEE
After expiry of the NEQS grace period granted to the industry, the industry representatives
requested deferment of implementation of the NEQS for some years to enable industry to prepare
and take corrective actions. They also pointed out stringency of the standards and suggested their
amendment. The Government did not agree to defer implementation of the NEQS, however, a
high level committee under the Chairmanship of Mr. Shamsh Kasim Lakha was constituted to
determine the modalities for enforcement of the National Environmental Quality Standards. The
Committee was also mandated to review the standards and propose amendments, if and where
deemed necessary. The Committee was represented by, Trade and Industry, NGOs, Environmental
Experts and government institutions. This Committee came up with a set of recommendations that
included amendment in the NEQS; certification of laboratories; introducing self-monitoring and
reporting system; levy of Pollution Charge in accordance with agreed formula; and awarding
incentives to industry
The Council accepted recommendations of the Committee. The Ministry of Environment in
consultation with stakeholders revised the National Environmental Quality Standards and notified
Environmental Laboratories Certification Regulations, 2000. A Pilot phase of self-monitoring and
reporting system was initiated for 50 industrial units at the federal level and was completed
successfully in March 2001. Now a full-scale implementation is to be undertaken by the provincial
EPAs. The Federal Government also offered incentives to industry in terms of reduction of custom
duty on import of anti-pollution equipment. The Pollution Charge formula was consented by the
Council while the mechanism for its collection and deposition was negotiated with the industry
representatives who agreed to follow mechanism on the line of Export Development Fund (EDF).
Following EDF mechanism the Pollution Charge collected, will first be deposited in the provincial
treasury and then the provincial governments will provide grant equivalent to the deposited
amount in the Provincial Sustainable Development Fund to be established by each province under
the Environmental Protection Act 1997).
INVESTMENT BY INDUSTRY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT
The industry claims that a sizeable investment has been made in the industrial sector since the
NEQS were established.
It has been estimated that at present about Rs. 800 million per annum is the size of
environmental investments in the industry sector of Pakistan. . It is assumed that growth rate of

20. environmental investments will be in the range of 5-8% per annum and with this growth rate, the
environmental investments in the country by year 2010 will be in the range of 1.3-1.7 billion per
annum (The Environmental Market of Pakistan by Azher Uddin Khan, November, 2000). It is
expected that the international market pressure, enforcement efforts by the federal and provincial
EPAs, and better macro-economic and governance conditions, the environmental investments will
further enhance.
LEGAL ACTION AGAINST POLLUTERS
For the first time, EPAs have started issuing Environmental Protection Orders to polluters
under section 16 of the Act aw. It has been reported that EPA, Punjab has served 143 EPOs; EPA
Balochistan 89 and Federal EPA 3 EPOs to polluting industry while EPA Sindh issued several
show cause notices but due to compliance by the industry they did not served EPOs. On public
complaints, a few industrial units, which were causing excessive pollution, were even closed down
or served with warning notices. Government had established two environmental Protection
Tribunals-one in Karachi and other in Lahore to decide environmental cases and appeals against
the orders of EPAs. Three more Tribunals will be set up in different cities.
CONSTITUTION OF NEQS IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE
Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development had
constituted a NEQS Implementation Committee headed by Dr. Pervez Hassan and comprising
representatives of trade and industry, NGOs and other stakeholders. The Committee will supervise
Self-monitoring and Reporting Programme for the industry and advise the Ministry on ways and
means to effectively implement the NEQS in the country.
STRENGTHENING OF EPAs
The Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development took various
initiatives and policy decision to support environmental institutions to effectively implement the
Act. The Ministry initiated Environment Protection and Resource Conservation Project funded by
the World Bank to strengthen Federal and provincial EPAs by providing them with additional staff,
operating budget, equipment, and technical assistance.
ESTABLISHMENT OF CLEANER PRODUCTION CENTER
One cleaner production center for petroleum sector is already functioning with the assistance
of UNIDO and other for leather industry in the public sector will start soon in Sialkot. These CPs
will promote adoption of ISO 14000 and help improve environmental performance of the industry.
Combined waste treatment plant for Kasur tanneries is in the final stage of completion while
similar arrangements are being planned in Sialkot and Karachi.
IMPROVING AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

21. Realizing the issue of degradation of air quality the Government has taken various steps for
its improvement to protect public from excessive exposure to pollution. Some significant
measures taken in the recent years are:
· Establishment of motor vehicle emission standards and review of strengthening of Motor
Vehicle Examination system in the country.
· Implementing lead and sulphur phase out programmes for providing clean fuels.
· Due to incentive regime offered by the Government, about 150,000 petrol vehicles have so
far been converted to CNG and a number of new CNG stations have set up in the country. Efforts
are also being made to convert diesel vehicles to CNG
· Setting up of 15 tune up stations for petrol and diesel vehicles and establishing a revolving
loan of US $ 3 million to encourage installation of additional tune up stations in the private sector.
· Constitution of Environmental Squads of traffic police at federal and provincial levels.
· Implementing of industrial emission standards.
INTRODUCTION OF CLEAN AND ALTERNATE FUELS
Government’s clean fuel programme is under implementation to reduce air pollution caused
by vehicular emission. Initially, it was planned to introduce unleaded gasoline in year 2005 but the
Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources is now planning to review the programme schedule
so that unleaded gasoline and low sulphur diesel could be made available in the market in near
future. As part of the clean air programme, 200,000 cars have been switched over to CNG.
Rickshaws (three wheelers) have also been successfully converted to CNG with the assistance of
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). Although this has been done on
experimental basis but at the same time efforts are being made to promote use of CNG in
Rickshaws through motivation and some incentive schemes. ENERCON has setup tune up
stations in different locations and now a line of credit is being established to encourage private
sector to set up tune up stations for vehicles.
DISBANDING PRESSURE HORNS
After the Cabinet decision on banning of pressure horns, campaign was launched at the
federal and provincial levels. Thousands of pressure horns were removed from vehicles while
negotiations with pressure horn manufacturers have been initiated to discourage manufacturing of
multi-stage pressure horns. Noise standards are also being formulated for the first time in Pakistan.
INVESTIGATION OF BONE DEFORMITY DISEASE IN KALANAWALA
News clippings attracted attention of the Ministry of Environment towards Kalanwala bone
deformation disease among children. Preliminary investigations by local authorities could not
uncover the root cause. Now, under the Federal Minister’s directive, a thorough investigation is

22. being undertaken with the assistance of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). A team
of local and Japanese experts (environmentalists and doctors) will be formed who will investigate
the issue both from pollution and epidemiological aspects.
5.6 ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT
ENERCON is also implementing the first ever UNDP/GEF funded $ 7.00 Million “Fuel
Efficiency in the Road Transport Project”. The project aims to reduce at source emissions of
greenhouse gases (GHGs) and other pollutants by improving fuel efficiency of road transport
vehicles in Pakistan. It will provide benefits at various levels. The vehicle owners will benefit
from fuel savings and lower fuel bills. The workshop owners will benefit form the
increased business in vehicle maintenance. The country will benefit from reduced fuel
imports. The global environmental benefits will be in the form of reduced GHG emissions.
To date ten (10) demonstration tune-up centers in various major cities of the country have
been established, wherein more than 18,000 vehicles have been tuned. Thirty-six (36) training
workshops (of 3-weeks duration each) were held in all major cities of the country, wherein 800
mechanics were trained in the operation of instrumented tune up equipment. Twenty (20)
workshop (of 2-days duration each) were held in major cities, wherein 443 workshop owners were
trained in the establishment and operation of instrumented tune-up centers. Twenty-three (23)
scopes of work for special studies were identified and developed in close collaboration with the
stakeholders/professionals, of which eighteen (18) are being conducted through private sector
consulting firms. In addition to extensive media campaign, the project has celebrated World
Environment Days, Earth days, etc. by conducting free tune-up camps throughout the country in
association with key stakeholders, such as, EPAs/EPDs, Serena Environmental Society Quetta,
Association of Road Users of Pakistan, WWF, Islamabad Traffic Police Environment Squad and
private sector (primarily oil distribution companies, vehicle manufacturers and private sector
workshops). The project also prepared a gender strategy and is practically encouraged
mainstreaming of women in the sector.
5.7 GENDER STRATEGY
NCS Unit is also preparing a Gender Strategy for the Ministry given our national as well as
international commitments in the light of the National Plan of Action on Women Advancement. In
this regard a one day workshop on Gender and Environment was held on April, 2000. The NCS
Unit has prepared a draft on Gender Strategy for MOELG&RD and consultative regarding the
draft gender strategy has been completed. A working Committee for the gender strategy has been
notified and has been entrusted to redraft the gender strategy in the light of the comments on the
first draft received from various wings/attached departments of MOELG&RD as well as the PEP
partners. It is hoped that in few months a 2nd draft of the gender strategy will be in hand to be
submitted to the competent authority.
5.8 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO NGOS

23. Involvement of NGOs in the implementation process of the National Conservation Strategy
(NCS) is one of the key elements. Accordingly, Ministry of Environment, LG&RD has been
providing financial assistance, to Non-Government Organizations, since 1991-92,to support them
to work as partners with Government for the implementation of Small Environment Related
Development Projects in the 14 core areas of the NCS (National Conservation Strategy).
NGO Fund Management Committee under the Federal Minister had held various meetings
and approved 76 projects of 76 NGOs against the budget allocations for the year 1999-2000 and
2000-2001. NGO are implementing the Projects in close coordination with the concerned
provincial Governments.
5.9 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS PROGRAMME
Given the mandate of NCS, a mass environmental awareness programme has been started
with Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) since October 1999. This involves broadcasting of
the environmental awareness spots on Radio Pakistan, FM 101 and FM 100 for the purpose of
creating mass awareness about the natural resource management and halting the environmental
degradation. The NCS Unit intends to launch radio spots in four regional languages also. The
NCS Unit has printed a handbook on the Pakistan National Conservation Strategy which has been
provided free of cost to various governmental/non-governmental organizations, schools, and
Pakistani Missions abroad for information.
5.10 FORESTRY PROGRAMME
NATIONAL FOREST POLICY OF PAKISTAN, 2001
Pakistan inherited the comprehensive 1894 forest policy, developed for the Indian
Subcontinent at a time when there were abundant forests and low human and livestock
populations. This was superseded by the policy statement of 1955 with subsequent revisions
occurring in 1962, 1975, 1980 and 1991.According to the Forestry Sector Master Plan 1992, the
wooded area of Pakistan at that time was about 3.584 million ha. However, the rate of natural
resource depletion has reached alarming levels during the last three decades, with added pressures
from socio-economic, political and institutional forces.
Significant efforts have been made for increasing forest cover at an average annual rate of
about 33,000 ha. During 1950s, 26,000 ha. In 1998-99 and 11,800 ha. In 1999-2000. Through
aggressive forest extension programmes, interest in farmland planting estimating to about 225,000
ha. Of compact forest plantations has been advocated thus bringing the forests to the forefront of
national consciousness.
Nevertheless, the need for an overarching National Forest Policy of Pakistan has remained for
providing the guiding framework for sustainable forest management practices as well as wider
participation of all stakeholders. The current draft National Forest Policy of Pakistan 2001,
highlights the need to conserve and develop the renewable natural resources, such as forests and
biodiversity of Pakistan. This draft policy seeks to initiate a process for eliminating the

24. fundamental causes of the depletion of renewable natural resource through participation of all the
concerned agencies and stakeholders, to enable the sustainable development of the resources in the
form of an umbrella policy which guides the Provincial and District level policy processes.
The goal of the draft National Forest Policy is to foster the sustainable development of forests
grazing-lands and biodiversity of Pakistan, for the maintenance and rehabilitation of its
environment and the enhancement of the sustainable livelihoods of its rural masses, especially
women and children. This goal is aspired through key elements of the draft policy:-
Ø Reducing the impact of socio-economic causes;
Ø Reducing political interference in the Forestry and other environmental Departments;
Ø Renovating and invigorating the institutions responsible for management of renewable
natural resources; and
Ø Preparing and implementing policies for fragile ecosystems.
It is in these various key elements that the specific policy guidelines are suggested for all
stakeholders for implementation and further action planning.
In order to deliberate on the contents of the draft National Forest Policy and consult with all
stakeholders, a Consultative Workshop was organized on 9-10 July, 2001 by the Ministry of
Environment, Local Government and Rural Development in collaboration with IUCN-The World
Conservation Union, Pakistan. The new forest Policy 2001 will be finalized within next 2-3
months and submitted to Federal Cabinet for approval.
REGULATING COMMERCIAL HARVEST OF FORESTS
Pakistan has a meager forest cover of 4.22 million ha. (4.8% of 88 million ha.). About 80%
of these forests are dispersed in the northern upland watersheds of Pakistan including AJK and
N.As. These forests are burdened with multiplying rights of timber, firewood and grazing
etc. Forests and trees in watersheds play a significant role to conserve soil and water to enhance
life span of Tarbela and Mangla Dams for sustained supply of irrigation water and hydropower
generation.
With very limited forest cover in Pakistan, the task of sustainable forest management
fulfilling the multiple and conflicting needs including ecological protection of highland watershed
areas, commercial timber demands and subsistence requirements of local forest communities,
demands high level policy commitment coupled with sound and elaborate planning framework,
implementation mechanisms and effective monitoring and evaluation systems. These strategic
objectives require the following pre-requisites:
i. Development of a sustainable forest planning and management framework taking into
consideration the diverse demands on the existing forest resources; and

25. ii. Participation of communities in forest protection, management and development with a
view to creating their stake in the forest management system.
FORESTRY SECTOR MASTER PLAN (FSMP)
The Government of Pakistan prepared this long term Plan for the development of forestry
sector over a period of 25 years from 1993-2018. The Plan reviewed in detail the state of
Pakistan's forestry and suggested a number of approaches, policies, strategies and programmes to
meet wood demand, improve environment and promote social and economic well-being of rural
communities. It also identified the social, economic and physical causes of forest depletion in the
country, and proposed five areas of development programmes, namely; Soil Conservation and
Watershed Management, Forest Management, Wood Production and Industrial Development,
Ecosystem and Biodiversity and Provincial and Federal Institutional Strengthening. The
programmes were presented as investment profiles, giving objectives, scope, strategies, costs and
benefits.
The FSMP, highlighting the forestry issues at national and provincial levels, stipulates
investment of Rs.48 billion during the next 25 years with resultant increase in forestry resource
from the existing 5% to 10%. Based on the recommendations of this plan, World Bank prepared
an investment programme of $ 25 million for forestry development in Punjab. Similarly, the Asian
Development Bank prepared an investment programme of $ 42 million for forest sector
development in NWFP with $ 1.5 million as Federal component for monitoring and updating the
FSMP.
Strengthening of the Forestry Wing at Federal Level for Sustained Monitoring of
Implementation of the Forestry Sector Master Plan” This project is under implementation since
1998 at a cost of Rs:48.36 million with FEC Rs:39.06 million provided by the Asian Development
Bank. The objectives of the project are as under:
1. Design a system for coordinating investment activities, identification and preparation of
forestry projects for donor and domestic funding within the framework of the FSMP.2. Monitor
and evaluate the effectiveness of various programmes in forestry sector and institutionalize the
system countrywide.3. Review and refine the FMSP priorities and strategies by undertaking
special studies of national importance in research, education/extension, policy, land tenurial
systems, forest management, marketing of forest products and codification of legal instruments.4.
Develop a forestry database and update the FSMP.
To accomplish the above objectives following activities have been envisaged for refinement
of Forestry Sector Master Plan:
1. Establishment of Forestry Database
2. 2. Conduct of Applied Research Studies
3. Recruitment of three Local Consultants for Database Management, Forest Management &
carry out economic analysis for future planning of the sector.

26. 4. Countrywide monitoring and evaluation of forestry sector master plan programmes being
implemented / accomplished.
5. Policy and institutional reforms.
FORESTS MANAGEMENT
Recently, the Government reviewed forest management and set the following guidelines to
ensure sustainable forest management, rapid afforestation and enforcement of forest laws:
i. Long-term forest working plans should be prepared in consultation with the local
communities and in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Federal Government from time
to time. The Federal Government in consultation with the Provincial Forest Departments will
review the implementation of the working plans periodically. The Federal Forestry Board (FFB)
will be activated for this purpose as well as to monitor changes in Forest Cover and to formulate
and review Forest Policy, institutional arrangements, etc;
ii. Commercial felling of trees from any forest area without a sustainable working plan should
not be carried out;
iii. The depleted forest areas should be protected and a programme of afforestation be
developed;
iv. Forest harvest shall only be carried out when funds to regenerate the cut-over area are
assured. Reforestation of cut over areas shall be carried out immediately after the completion of
felling operations along with strict enforcement of protection measures;
v. Reserved forests of conifer types are not burdened with rights of the communities. Harvest
of trees from these natural forests should be restricted to hygienic felling only through Joint Forest
Management Committees where such committees exist. Rights of easement in such forests may be
maintained;
vi. Timber of dead, dry and wind fallen trees should be immediately salvaged. In AJK, about
12 million cft of timber is lying in forests logged by Azad Kashmir Logging and Saw Milling
Corporation (AKLASC). No commercial felling of forests in AJK may be undertaken till the
timber is salvaged;
vii. In Northern Areas, movement and disposal of timber will be rationalized in consultation
with the office of I.G. Forests to avoid illicit cutting of forests;
viii. Where private ownership rights in forests are 60% or more, protection/management
mechanisms may be left to the communities under legal cover, which will be based on working
plans. Management cost of such forests should be borne by the communities out of income from
timber sales. Forest Departments will continue to assist the village communities in preparation of

27. sustainable working plans and to monitor the activities regarding protection and management of
their forests;
ix. A system of forest check posts should be strengthened with the assistance of civil
administration and Civil Armed Forces to monitor the movement of timber within the province.
For inter-provincial movement of wood, office of IGF will regulate in consultation with Provincial
Forest Departments including N.As and AJK;
x. The forest offenders may be strictly dealt with in accordance with the provisions of Forest
Laws. To deal with forest offence cases, schedule of compensation and fines will be
revised/rationalized; and
xi. A system of Monitoring and Evaluation of Forest Management may be established to
monitor change in forest cover in consultation with Ministry of Environment, Local Government
and Rural Development and Provincial Forest Departments.
xii. All Government Departments, NGOs, Educational Institutions, Local Communities and
Forest owners be involved in afforestation activities so as to increase the forest cover in the
country.
xiii. Institutional strengthening of Forest Department through necessary reforms focusing on
transparency, effective enforcement of laws, community participation and strict action against
corrupt elements.
xiv. Progress on implementation of the above decisions will be reviewed by the Federal
Cabinet after one year.
The Forestry Wing is monitoring implementation of the decision of the Federal Cabinet.
PROGRESS OF TREE PLANTING CAMPAIGNS
Pakistan has a meager forest cover of 4.22 million ha. In order to enhance tree cover in the
country, tree planting campaigns are launched at the national level during Spring and Monsoon
seasons. During tree planting campaigns all the Government Departments, private organizations
and NGOs are involved in planting activities.
The achievements made since 1999 are summarized as under:
(Plants in Million)
Years Spring Monsoon Total
1999 110.050 61.860 171.910
2000 94.561 55.263 149.824

28. 2001 83.039 In Progress
TOTAL 1490.182 882.139 2,289.282
Since October 1999, 232.863 million saplings have been planted and a target of 59 million
has been fixed for current monsoon season.
FEDERAL FORESTRY BOARD (FFB)
The Central Forestry Board, which was constituted in 1954 to provide a platform for the
improvement of Forest Policy remained dormant for most of the time. This board has been
re-constituted and named as “Federal Forestry Board (FFB)”. The first meeting of the board was
held in April 2001 to discuss various issues related to the Forestry Sector. The board comprises
representatives from the Provincial Forest Departments including AJK and Northern Areas, NGOs,
Progressive Farmers and other stakeholders. The purpose of the board is to develop policies and
strategies related to the Forestry Sector and also monitor the activities of the Provincial Forest
Departments including the forest cover changes, data taking place at the national level.
5.11 WILDLIFE PROTECTION
NCCW like the main Ministry i.e. Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural
Development under the its Minister tried to fulfill its functions efficiently, during the last one and
half year. Since the Department gets the policy guidelines from the Council headed by the
Minister, it was necessary to hold meetings of NCCW more frequently to get advice and report the
progress on regular basis. During this period, two meetings of the Council i.e. in July
2000. March 2001 and 7th August, 2001 were held. NCCW decided the issue of exemptions in
the proposed ban on hunting. The quota for trophy hunting of Markhor, Urial and Ibex was
decided. It was also decided to ban the menace of bear baiting.
NATIONAL SYMBOLS
The Pakistan Environmental Protection Council took considered decision to declare the
following national symbols:
National Tree Deodar
National animal-Flare Horned Markhor
National bird Chukar (Chakor)
National Flower Jasmine
TROPHY HUNTING
In 1983 the Wildlife Wing of the NWFP’s Forest Department began the Chitral Conservation
Hunting Programme, a trophy hunting programme for Markhor. This was not strictly a

29. community-based conservation program because all proceeds went to the government. The
programme lasted for 8 years until the GoP banned the export of trophies along with all big game
hunting throughout Pakistan.
In July 2000, NCCW recommended that Community-based Trophy Hunting Programme
(CTHPs) be exempted from the hunting ban. In August 2000, the Federal Cabinet officially
banned big game hunting, except for exemptions recommended by NCCW for CTHPs. This ban
applies to all big game species and provides a role to NCCW for regulating harvest of both CITES
and non-CITES species such as ibex, blue sheep and urial.
The longest running CTHP in Pakistan is the Torghar Conservation Project (TCP) on tribal
lands in the Torghar range of northwest Balochistan. The late Nawab Taimur Shah Jogezai
initiated this project and Sardar Naseer Tareen in response to concerns about the status of Afghan
Urial and Suleiman Markhor population in the Torghar Hills. With technical input from US
wildlife biologist, TCP initiated a conservation programme to stop poaching. Using revenue from
the sale of a small number of trophy hunts local people were hired as wildlife guards. TCP was
formalized as a registered NGO – the Society for Torghar Environmental Protection (STEP). In
the first 10 years, STEP generated about US $ 460,000 from hunts for 14 Markhor and 20 Urial.
Two senior conservation NGOs are major proponents of CTHPs in Pakistan. Pakistan was the
second to develop the CTHPs beginning in the Barr Valley in Northern Areas. Asiatic or
Himalayan ibex have been the focus of WWF’s CTHPs. IUCN-Pakistan’ s involvement in trophy
hunting also began and it implemented a Pre-investment Feasibility (PRIF) project- Maintaining
Biodiversity in Pakistan with Rural Community Development.
PROTECTED AREAS/ NATIONAL PARKS MANAGEMENT
NCCW have encouraged the Provincial Wildlife Departments for better management of
protected areas particularly national parks of the country. After a consultative process, following
national parks have been short listed for their management at global standards:-
1．Lal Sohanra National Park (Punjab).
2. Kirthar National Park (Sindh).
3. Khunjerab National Park (Northern Areas).
4. Chiltan Hazarganji National Park (Balochistan).
5. Margallah Hills National Park (ICT).
6. Chitral Gol National Park (NWFP).
Provincial Wildlife Departments are also being encouraged to bring more areas under the
protected areas network.

30. NCCW in collaboration with Provincial Governments got control of bear baiting practice,
which was causing a bad name for the country. The effective advocacy and control measures
have reduced the bear baiting events in the country, which has been acknowledge by World
Society for Protection of Animals (WSPA).
CHAPTER 6
IMPLEMENTATION OF INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS/PROTOCOLS
Pakistan is signatory to various international conventions and protocols. Different projects are
under implementation and various activities are underway to discourage use of ozone depleting
substances, protection of biodiversity, promoting use of renewable energy, energy conservation in
road transport sector, enhancing forestry cover etc.
6.1 WORLD SUBMIT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (WSSD)
The World Summit on Sustainable Development ( also known as Rio+10), will be a summit
gathering from 2-11 September 2002 in Johannesburg, South Africa, of world governments,
concerned citizens, United Nations agencies, multilateral financial institutions and other major
actors to assess global change since the historic United Nations Conference on Environment and
Development (UNCED), of 1992. In Johannesburg, the world will take a critical look back at
UNCED, and aim to arrive at a comprehensive, frank and useful review of the past ten years. The
55th General Assembly session decided in December 2000 that the CSD would serve as the
central organizing body for the upcoming 2002 World Summit
The World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) will aim to assess what has been
accomplished since UNCED – the progress and way ahead. The preparations for Rio+10 are
underway at three distinct levels:
(i) International level – series of meetings of the Commission on Sustainable Development
(CSD) and holding Thematic Global Roundtables;
(ii) Regional level – developing regional assessment report, holding dialogues, sharing
experience and establishing a regional platform; and
(iii) National level – preparing review and assessment reports, raising awareness and
mobilizing stakeholders.
The Government of Pakistan (GoP) is also gearing up to participate in the WSSD in
accordance with the guidelines provided by the CSD. The GoP has notified a Pakistan National
Steering Committee for WSSD with representatives from government, private sector, civil society
and UN organizations. At an operational level, a WSSD Executive Committee is also established

31. to oversee the preparations process. Following activities are planned for the Pakistan’s
Preparation for WSSD.
-Preparation of Country Assessment Report
- 101 Ways to Sustainable Development
-Children’s Agenda 21 Poster Competition
- Media mobilization
To undertake the planned activities as per national preparations guidelines of CSD Secretariat,
a WSSD Cell will shortly be established within the Ministry of Environment, the Celll will
coordinate and carryout activities planned for development of Pakistan’s National Assessment
Report for WSSD.
The South Asia Preparatory Meeting was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka on 27-28 September
2001. Pakistan also participated in the meeting.
6.2 PAKISTAN NATIONAL COMMUNICATION TO UNFCCC
Pakistan signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
in 1992 and ratified it in 1994. the ratification of the Convention triggered a series of activities
in Pakistan regarding climate change issues. These included the Asia Least-cost Greenhouse Gas
Abatement Strategy (ALGAS) project completed in 1998, which was the first comprehensive
national project on climate change and that covered both quantification of emissions and the
setting out of a long-term emissions reduction programme as well as the Country Case Study on
Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Assessments in Pakistan which was also completed in
1998 and which assessed the impact of Climate Change on four major sectors of economy, i.e.
agriculture, forestry, water resources, and meteorology.
All parties to the Convention are required to prepare a National Communication to the
UNFCCC, which contains an inventory of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs), and also indicates policies
and measures which the government will take to adapt to or mitigate the adverse impacts of
Climate Change. In response to the Convention’s requirement of submission of a National
Communication, the Ministry of Environment, Local Government and Rural Development
(MELG&RD), constituted a National Study Team (NST) to prepare the report. The NST consisted
of consultants, Pakistan Agriculture Council, Pakistan Forest Institute, National Institutes of
Oceanography, Pakistan Science Foundation, ENVORK – environmental consultant firm, Marine
Investigators and some independent sector experts. The Pakistan National Communication (PNC)
has been prepared by the National Study Team (NST).
6.3 PREPARATION OF BIOSAFETY GUIDELINES IN GENETIC ENGINEERING
AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

32. Pakistan is Party to Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Article 19 of CBD provides
that the parties may need to consider setting out appropriate procedures for safe transfer, handling
and use of any living modifies organism resulting from biotechnology that may have adverse
affect on the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Pakistan has prepared these
guidelines to fulfill the obligation. The Guidelines were discussed in a national workshop
organized by this Ministry and will soon be finalized.
6.4 PREPARATION OF BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN FOR PAKISTAN (BAP)
Pakistan being party to CBD is required to prepare national strategy and action plan for the
conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. A Biodiversity Action Plan for Pakistan has been
finalized and printed for dissemination to all concerned Government Institutions/NGOs and other
stakeholders. The broad objectives of BAP are to:
1) To create a policy framework that fosters the sustainable use of biological resources and
the maintenance of biodiversity.
2) To strengthen and promote national biodiversity conservation programmes and develops
international and regional cooperation.
3) To create conditions and incentives for biodiversity conservation at the local community
level.
4) To strengthen and apply more broadly the tools and technologies for conserving
biodiversity.
5) To strengthen human knowledge, will and capacity to conserve biodiversity.
To oversee the implementation and coordination of BAP, a Federal Steering Committee has
been established. A Biodiversity Working Group is also being established which will be an
advisory group on biodiversity issues. Provincial Steering Committees are also being established
in the provinces.
6.5 PREPARATION OF NATIONAL ACTION PROGRAMME TO COMBAT
DESERTIFICATION (NAP) IN PAKISTAN
For fulfilling its obligations under CCD, Pakistan has prepared a national programme to
combat desertification in Pakistan. The final draft of NAP has been prepared after wide
consultation of all relevant organizations/individuals. It will be presented to the next meeting of
PEPC for its approval. The programme of action aims at:
a) Providing a guidelines/framework for sustainable development of the natural resources and
preservation of biological diversity in different agro-ecological regions of the country.
b) Alleviating poverty and improving living standard of the people of arid lands by adopting
improved technologies and by having access to extension and support services.

33. c) Providing an effective institutional mechanism at various levels of formulating policy and
plans and conducting research and development in the aridlands.
d) Human resource development through capacity building and creating awareness among the
masses for identification and tackling area specific problems.
e) Gender-balanced decision making and effective participation through the recognition of the
economic value of women’s work.
6.6 PREPARATION OF NATIONAL COUNTRY REPORTS ON THE
IMPLEMENTATION OF CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY (CBD) IN
PAKISTAN
Pakistan being party to CBD since 1994 is required to submit reports on the implementation
of CBD. First and second National Reports on the implementation of CBD have been prepared
through a wide consultation process involving all relevant Government Institutions/NGOs.
6.7 PREPARATION OF NATIONAL COUNTRY REPORT ON THE
IMPLEMENTATION OF CONVENTION TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION AND
DROUGHT (CCD) IN PAKISTAN
Pakistan is party to CCD since 1997 and is required to regularly submit reports on the
implementation of CCD in Pakistan. First National Report on the implementation of CCD has
been prepared and submitted to CCD Secretariat.
6.8 PREPARATION OF CHAPTER ON ENVIRONMENT FOR MARITIME POLICY
Maritime Policy for Pakistan is being prepared for which MELG&RD has contributed
Chapter 6 which relates with environmental issue along the coast and in the sea.
6.9 FOCAL POINT OF CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
Pakistan is party to CCD since 1997. Ministry of Environment, LG&RD is focal point for
CCD in Pakistan. Ministry is coordinating with CCD Secretariat in disseminating relevant
information about the Convention from the Secretariat to all stakeholders in Pakistan and
preparing country reports on the implementation of CCD and other information required to the
Secretariat. ERNP sub-projects were also engaged in the World Environment Day 2001
celebrations at their headquarters in Punjab and NWFP.
6.10 WILDLIFE RELATED CONVENTIONS (CITES, RAMSAR and CMS)
NCCW is implementing the obligations of the following three Conventions to which
Government of Pakistan is signatory:
a. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES).

34. b. Convention on Wetland of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl
Habitat (Ramsar).
c. Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS).
A ban on commercial export of CITES Appendix-I and II species was implemented with
exception of scientific use. Similarly the export of mammals and reptiles, which are not common
in the country, remained closed. The commercial export of common birds, mostly captive bred
species was encouraged. This policy was regulated by NCCW in collaboration with Ministry of
Commerce and Provincial Wildlife Departments.
For better implementation of Ramsar Convention, Pakistan had notified eight Ramsar sites in
collaboration with Ramsar Bureau. With the addition of eight new wetlands, now there are 16
Ramsar Sites notified for conservation of wetland associated biodiversity. This recent increase in
Ramsar Sites enhanced the image of the country in conservation circle.
NCCW also encouraged the Provincial Wildlife Departments to implement the obligations of
Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) also known as Bonn
Convention. The threatened migratory species like cranes, geese, storks, pelicans etc. are protected
in most of the provinces. NCCW, as an obligation of MOU signed under CMS, is trying to protect
the threatened Siberian crane in collaboration with WWF-Pakistan and NWFP Wildlife
Department. Similarly another Conservation Plan and MOU is under consideration for
conservation of marine turtles. NCCW is also trying to minimize the hunting pressure on
Houbara bustard and falcon species in collaboration with Houbara/Falcon Foundation
International-Pakistan.
CHAPTER 7
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
7.1 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS, DIRECT ELECTIONS OF UNION
COUNCILS:
The Local Government Elocutions have been completed in all the district.
7.2 INDIRECT ELECTIONS OF TEHSILE COUNCILS AND DISTRICT COUNCILS
Indirect elections of District Councils and Tehsile councils which included District/Tehsile
/Town Nazim and Naib Nazim, women, peasant/worker and minority were held on August 2,
2001. The Union Councillors notified as elected and their names appeared in the electoral roll of
Councillors were made eligible to cast vote in the indirect elections. There was no bar on casting
vote before taking oath of office as member elect.
7.3 TRAINING OF LOCAL COUNCILLORS

35. The elected Local Government representatives are being imparted training on various aspects
of the Local Government under a phased programme. First phase of training has been completed
and planning for the subsequent phases is in final stage. Providing training to elected leadership
would be a continuous process.
7.4 KHUSHHAL PAKISTAN PROGRAMME/ KHUSHHAL KASHMIR
PROGRAMME
Khushhal Pakistan Programme has been launched by the Federal Government for poverty
alleviation, development of infrastructure and service delivery assets in March 2000. The
programme is aimed at enhancement of well being of the poor, creation of employment and
increasing income of rural and urban poor. The programme is being implemented in a
decentralized manner covering 12 major sectors through the districts.
So far 13560 development schemes with the cost of Rs.14922 million have been approved out
of which 8082 schemes are completed, 4270 schemes are at various stages of completion. About 2
million job opportunities have been created. The programme will cover about 78
million population.
7.5 POVERTY ALLEVIATION THROUGH DISTRIBUTION OF UNUTILIZED
STATE LAND
It is now established globally that there is no trade-off between economic investment and
poverty alleviation. In fact in countries like Pakistan, where a large portion of the population lives
in abject deprivation, economic growth is possible only if poverty alleviation is kept at the center
of planning. Since the overwhelming majority lives in rural areas, this means that rural
development is the key to Pakistan’s economic growth. Previous public sector efforts at rural
poverty alleviation have been mostly welfare-oriented and limited in scope. Land reforms of 1959
and 1972 have had mixed results and there is a need to learn lessons from these experiments.
Experience has led to the realization that traditional isolated efforts at development (such as
building latrines, paving streets or electrifying villages) are not as successful in alleviating rural
poverty as integrated development. Thus, the Government is committed to removing this
systemic bias and integrating the rural poor in national development through delivering land to the
landless and good governance. The Local Government Plan represents enormous scope for
empowering at the grassroots, and offers the enabling environment needed to tackle rural poverty.
The full benefits of the land to landless scheme may thus be reaped through integrated efforts that
address core problems together, and that relate closely to the Devolution Plan.
On the Directive of Chief Executive of Pakistan, the Ministry of ELG&RD is working on
preparation of policy framework for distribution of state land to landless farmers. The Minister for
ELG&RD has constituted a Committee, who is working on the details of the policy framework.
According to the data available, approximately 2612619 acres of unutilized state land of various
types are available for distribution to the landless farmers.
7.6 DEVOLUTION PLAN 2000

36. The new local government plan 2000 ensured introduction of democracy at the grass roots
level to serve as the foundation on which will be built the edifice of genuine democracy. Power
has thus been transferred to the peoples representatives at grass roots levels along with
responsibility and administrative authority coupled with checks and balances to preclude the abuse
of power or authority. This entail establishing a three tier local government system i.e. Union
Councils over a cluster of villages, Tehsil Councils in each Tehsil and District Councils at the
District level through elections. 33% representation for women and 5% for other marginalized
groups like laborers, workers peasants and the minorities is also made part of this system first time
in the history of Pakistan. Elections of local councils all over Pakistan have been completed and
new District/Tehsil governments have started working since 14th August, 2001.
The elected Local Government representatives are being provided training on various aspects
of the Local Government under a phased programme. First phase of training has been completed
and planning for the subsequent phases is in final stage. Providing training to elected leadership
would be a continuous process.
7.7 KACHI ABADIS
Katchi Abadis resulted as consequence of un-precedented growth of population, rural-urban
migration and non provision of built houses/serviced plots for the low income. The deterioration
of old urban settlement has further aggravated the issue. According to Katchi Abadis Policy 1985,
there were 2242 Katchi Abadis with a population of 5.10 million living over an area of 36,022
acres. The estimates for the urban population living in Katchi Abadis and in unserviced plots
range from 35-50% . The growth of Katchi Abadis in the past is a direct result of the shortcoming
in the housing delivery system and lack of access to affordable tenure by the poor. In metropolitan
cities of Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Peshawar and Quetta 40% of the populations are completed
to live in Katchi Abadis.
Housing is one of the basic human needs. According to 1998 census, the estimated housing
backlog was 4.30 million housing units.
However, against annual additional requirements of around 570,000 housing units, the annual
supply is around is 300,000 units. Considering Katachi Abadis as a reality, Government
formulated a pragmatic and feasible policy in January 2001 to deal with the issue in a
comprehensive manner. Which among others stipulates that the residents of all Katchi Abadis
consisting of at least 40 dwellings, who were in occupation upto 23rd March, 1985, were entitled
to be granted proprietary rights in those Katchi Abadis, through a process called ‘Regularization
of Katchi Abadis’. For those Katachi Abadis which have to be relocated due to practical reasons,
the residents will be shifted after preparing re-settlement plans for such settlements by the Land
Owning Agencies. The government has also made it compulsory for all government housing
schemes to include plots for low income people which shall be offered to them at affordable prices.
These decisions will help check mushrooming of the slums alongwith protection against ahdoc
evictions of Katachi Abadis.

37. The Minister for Environment, Local Government and Rural Development held series of
meetings with the respective provincial governors, chief secretary’s and concerned official
impressed upon them the need to deal with the issue in totality and initiate necessary measures to
implement the decisions of Chief Executive in also held three inter-provincial meetings of all the
concerned provincial governments/ Land Owning Agencies at Islamabad to review the progress.
KACHI ABADIS AND EFFORTS MADE BY PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS/LAND
OWING AGENCIES
In Punjab, according to latest report, there were 913 Katchi Abadis to be regularized. Out of it
595 Katchi Abadis have already been regularized leaving a balance of 318 Katchi Abadis which
are at present in the process of regularization. Against 318 Katchi Abadis, NOCs of 143 Katchi
Abadis have been received (111 complete and 24 partial). Further more 59 Katchi Abadis have so
far been identified by various LOAs for shifting/relocation. The resettlement plans for these
Abadis are being prepared. Moreover, formalities are being completed to grant proprietary rights
to 87180 dwelling have been granted by the Chief Executive. The concerned Development
Authorities/Local councils are also preparing rough cost estimates for undertaking main
development works on felt basis for 178 Katchi Abadis.
In Sindh, moreover, Minister for Environment, Local Government and Rural Development
had a meeting with the Governor of Sindh and Chief Secretary Sindh May 5, 2001 and various
decisions were taken. So far government of Sindh has finalized detailed regularization and
re-settlement plans other than Katchi Abadis located on Pak Railway, Civil Aviation Authority
and evacuee Trust Property Board lands. Necessary negotiation with these agencies in on-going.
Government of Balochistan has prepared a Model Urban Shelter Project over an area of 100
acres to provide shelter to shelterless especially to the emigrants of the Quetta City. The same will
act as model to replicate in other cities later on.
Out of 11 Katchi Abadis existing in Islamabad, 5 Abadis are to be removed/relocated owing
to their locations in right of way of roads and sensitive areas. CDA has finalized the Model Urban
Shelter Project for re-location of Muslim Colony Imam Bari to new site at Farash. The land
leveling work is in progress. Moreover, Survey of Katchi Abadis dwellers has also been
completed.
Ministry of Railways has identified 196 Katchi Abadis on the Railway lands. Out of this, they
have granted NOCs in respect of 18 Katchi Abadis completely and 25 Katchi Abadis partially.
In the review meeting chaired by the Minister for Environment, Local Government & Rural
Development held on 25th June, 2001, it was observed that there has been some progress with
regard to issuance of NOCs by land-owning agencies, verification of beneficiaries, up-gradation
work and preparatory work for resettlement of Abadis in dangerous/operational areas. However, a
number of issues have also emerged that require resolution for the smooth implementation of the
decisions taken inn the January 15, 2001 meeting. The main problem being encountered relates to
the responsibility for provision of alternate land for preparing resettlement plans. As a result

38. resettlement plans, as had been decided in the meeting, have not been received by the Ministry
as were required to be done by the end of June. The Minister also reviewed the progress in a
meeting held on 13-9-2001and observed that the Punjab and Sindh a substantial work has been
done.
Accordingly the Minister for Environment, Local Government and Rural Development
requested President of Pakistan to extend 30-06-2001 deadlines for resettlement plans by another
three months period from end June onward up to 30th September, 2001. During this period land
owing agencies and Provincial Governments will prepare inventories for all the pre-1985 Katchi
Abadis as well as preparation of regularization & up-gradation plans. There will be no summary
evictions except of commercial buildings. However, this will be done through the committees
comprising of land owning agencies, district administration and the representatives of Army
Monitoring Team. Moreover re-settlement plans will be prepared by 31st October, 2001 for those
Katchi Abadis which are to be re-located /shifted.
CHAPTER 8
RURAL DEVELOPMENT
8.1 RURAL ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Environmental issues in rural areas in Pakistan are somewhat different in nature from the
urban areas.
DEGRADATION OF SOIL AND LAND
The major causes of land degradation and low productivity in Pakistan are water and wind
erosion, water logging and salinity, flooding and loss of organic matter in soil. Water erosion is
quite extensive in northern areas, wind erosion in arid and sandy desert areas; flooding and
pounding is mostly in the province of Punjab while water logging and salinity is a problem in all
the four provinces. The land degradation includes water erosion 17%, wind erosion 7.6%, and
salinity/sodicity 8.6% of total surveyed area. It is estimated that 96% of the arable soil has
inadequate organic matter content. The crop yield per acre in Pakistan is far less than majority of
the other countries of the world.
URBAN GROWTH ON RURAL LAND
With the increase in urban population, cities are expanding horizontally and encroaching
upon agricultural land. In the last few years many new housing schemes in Punjab, Sindh and
NWFP have come up on fertile land. It is important to protect and conserve good agriculture land
from further depletion.
EXCESSIVE USE OF PESTICIDES AND CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS