Experts call for faster implementation of Karachi Climate Action Plan
KARACHI: Experts have expressed concern over the slow implementation of the Karachi Climate Action Plan (KCAP), warning that the city faces growing risks from extreme heat, urban flooding, drought, coastal hazards, air pollution and the rapid loss of green spaces.
Speaking at a media dialogue jointly organised by The Knowledge Forum (TKF), Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ) and Local Government Reporters Association Karachi, the experts called for urgent and coordinated action to address Karachi’s climate challenges.
NED University’s Mashood Tariq said the KCAP aimed to put Karachi on a pathway towards carbon neutrality by 2050 while strengthening the city’s capacity to deal with present and future climate risks.
He said Karachi’s built-up area had increased from 270 square kilometres in 2013 to 538 square kilometres in 2023, while grass and shrubland, agricultural land and mangrove areas had declined significantly during the same period.
He stressed the need to conserve mangroves, improve drainage, increase urban green spaces and strengthen solid waste and sewage management to reduce climate-related risks.
Clean energy expert Basil Andrews said around 2,300MW of solar capacity had been installed in Karachi, reflecting a major shift in the city’s energy landscape. However, he said the benefits of the energy transition needed to reach smaller consumers and vulnerable communities as well.
The speakers also urged stronger cooperation among civic institutions, civil society, researchers and the media to ensure effective implementation of Karachi’s climate action strategy.
