Pakistan marks first World Day for Glaciers with a call for conservation

Established by the United Nations to promote glacier conservation, this day underscores the vital role glaciers play in sustaining freshwater resources and preserving ecological balance.

The ceremony was presided over by Mr Muhammad Aurangzeb , Finance Minister, who emphasized the government's commitment to addressing climate change through both adaptation and mitigation strategies. He underscored the importance of glaciers as vital freshwater sources and acknowledged the necessity of financial support to preserve these natural assets. Speaking about the 2022 floods, he said, “In the flooding of 2022, GLOF events struck and from what I understand Pakistan has a little over 3,000 glacial lakes, 33 of which are highly volatile putting a little over seven million people in danger.”

He added that these statistics were large and alarming and therefore the work being done in terms of coming up with a Pakistan glacial protection and resiliency framework was a very timely action.

Ms Aisha Humera Chaudhary , Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, launched the Pakistan Glacier Protection and Resilience Strategy Framework. She outlined the strategy's priorities and action plans, focusing on sustainable practices and community engagement to protect glacier ecosystems.

A panel discussion featuring Dr Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal , Minister of State for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination; Raja Nasir Ali Khan , Minister for Planning of Gilgit-Baltistan; Mr Mahmood Akhtar Cheema , Country Representative of IUCN Pakistan; and Mr Maurizio Gallo , Glacial Expert from EVK2CNR provided scientific perspectives on glacier preservation. The panellists discussed the latest research findings, technological advancements, and the significance of international collaboration in combating glacier retreat.

Mr Mahmood Akhtar Cheema highlighted the significance of nature-based solutions in addressing climate change adaptation and mitigation. He emphasized the role of community-led conservation initiatives, particularly in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, including the sustainable trophy hunting program and the biodiversity safeguarding project. Additionally, he underscored the restoration of a 900-year-old cultural heritage site, aimed at promoting tourism, local cuisine, and cultural preservation. He also referenced a sustainable livelihood improvement initiative launched three decades ago, which continues to deliver results, with communities actively managing conservation efforts. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of the Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences (2025-2034) , which was also launched today.

The event also included the screening of a documentary by the UNDP's Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Risk Reduction Project (GLOF-II), highlighting the challenges posed by glacial melt and the project's efforts to mitigate related risks.

World Glacier Day serves as a reminder of the pressing need to protect glaciers, which are essential for freshwater availability, sea-level regulation, and climate stability. The collaborative efforts demonstrated at the NDMA event reflect Pakistan's dedication to environmental conservation and its proactive role in global climate action.

For more information, please contact:
Mr Hammad Saeed
Manager, Communications and Knowledge Management
IUCN Pakistan, Islamabad Country Office
Cell. +92 307 7773801
E-mail: [email protected]