Snowless winter

Aqib Ullah (Jangbazar Chitral)

The climatic conditions in Pakistan are deteriorating day by day. Gone are the days when climate change was merely a concern for urban areas.

Climate change, the rapidly rising impact of this serpent is felt in every corner of the country, obscuring distinctions between winter and summer zones.

Traditionally, January and February are considered the peak of winter, especially in mountainous regions. Unfortunately, this year, these months are likely to pass without a drop of rain or the elation of seeing the gigantic mountain peaks capped with snow.

Recently, COP28 was held to initiate efforts for sustainable development and reduce fossil fuel consumption till 2030. However, it seems that nature isn’t poised to wait. While Pakistan may not be listed among the countries worsening the environment, nature doesn’t recognize geographical boundaries.

Actions taken on one continent to harm the climate can impact others.

Focusing on various development programs while neglecting environmental conditions won’t be helpful. Good living conditions depend on a serene environment.

As elections approach, political candidates are busy campaigning for votes, but few address environmental and climate change issues in their manifestos. Ignoring these problems won’t solve them.

Water scarcity has become the norm due to the rapid melting of glaciers. People are forced to use impure water, leading to various diseases. Abnormal weather patterns also have a serious mental impact. Not spreading awareness among those exploiting nature by cutting trees and using resources abundantly adds fuel to this fire, which is spiraling out of control.

The absence of environmental concerns in political agendas, especially as elections approach, raises alarms.

Sessions regarding the importance of a clean environment and the consequences of climate change should be arranged for the public.

Environmental subjects should be taught in schools from the primary level so that children understand the significance of planting trees, adopting a sustainable approach with natural resources, not wasting clean water, and taking care of nature, recognizing that nature can retaliate against those exploiting it.