Mirza Ikhtiyar Baig (Economist): It is a very important diplomatic step taken by the government. The on-going international conference on ‘Climate Resilient Pakistan’ is the result of effective diplomacy of Pakistan to make the world realize about the devastating effects of climate change in our country. The UN Secretary General has assured that the international community and the United Nations will support the recovery and reconstruction efforts in Pakistan. The devastation from climate change directly affects the developing nations despite the fact that these countries are least responsible for the climate disaster.
Dr. Noor Fatima (Economist): Pakistan contributes less than 1% of the global greenhouse gas emissions yet, it is highly vulnerable to adverse impacts of climate change. Last year's devastation in the country due to floods is unprecedented. It is responsibility of the world capitals and the developed countries to pledge support to mitigate the sufferings of the developing countries that have been impacted by the industrial growth of advanced nations. It is a good development that Pakistan received pledges of around 8.7 billion dollars but these need to be matured as soon as possible. These pledges will also help Pakistan improve its dwindling foreign exchange reserves.
Dr. Muhammad Tufail (Religious Scholar): Hajj is a gathering of Ummah to perform their religious obligation. It was an important ritual even before the advent of Islam. From the era of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) till today, it is a continuous process. Saudi Arabia is lucky enough to have the main Muslim shrines in the country, including Holy Kaaba. As per the constitution of Pakistan, Islam is the religion of the country. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. Every year a huge number of Muslims across the globe visit Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj and Umrah. Many Pakistanis also go to perform Hajj during the hajj season. It is tradition of Saudi Arabia to hold an annual conference every year to finalize the arrangements for Hajj and setting the quota for the pilgrims from different countries.
Prof. Naeem (Religious Scholar): As compared to the past, the Hajj arrangements have been improved to a great extent. Every possible effort is being made to facilitate the Hajj pilgrims. Hajj applications would likely be called by the end of February and the religious affairs minister would announce the Hajj Policy 2023 after the cabinet’s approval. The ongoing “Expo Hajj” is part of the Ministry's continued efforts to develop innovative services and solutions to better serve pilgrims. There are over 200 speakers and participants from various sectors at the event, all working together to generate fresh, creative ideas.
Dr. Musadik Malik (Minister of State): All the proposals discussed in the cabinet meeting regarding energy conservation are worthy. Early closure of markets is related to our cultural values. The initiative of the government for the implementation of the Energy Conservation Plan is a big breakthrough. The government is focusing on producing 10-12 thousand MW of electricity through solar and wind powers. We are also inviting bids for the production of 600MW electricity through solar panels. In daytime, solar energy will be utilized in the industries while in evening LNG power will be used. The government is also focusing on improving the infrastructure of the power distribution companies and reducing the line losses. Basically, in the summer season the demand for electricity reaches 27000 MW which becomes a challenge. Every democratic government must prioritize national interests and ensure the continuity of the national projects.
Mirza Ikhtiyar Baig (Economist): It is not a new thing as energy conservation plans are being practiced worldwide. In our country, the markets are opened and closed late, resulting in too much energy consumption. Energy efficiency and conservation have been neglected in Pakistan for decades. All governments have been focusing on adding generation capacity but not reducing its consumption. Energy efficiency and conservation can provide highly impactful and cost-effective ways for the government to quickly respond to the energy crisis.
Dr. Gulfaraz Ahmed (Energy Expert): The government has taken an important measure to ensure implementation of the Energy Conservation Plan. Basically, energy saving is a special way of reducing the use of this commodity. If markets are closed earlier and there is no impact on business activities, then it is ok. But the government needs to take effective measures to create a balance between energy saving and economic activities. Most low-income households only have lights and fans at home. These are energy inefficient as people are still using incandescent bulbs and inefficient fans. Replacing incandescent light bulbs with LEDs can save 80% energy.
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