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Supreme Court of Pakistan Mandates Swift Establishment of Climate Change Authority

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Supreme Court of Pakistan Mandates Swift Establishment of Climate Change Authority

Islamabad, 07-08-2024: The Supreme Court of Pakistan, during its original jurisdiction hearing of C.P. 42/2022 and C.P. 25/2024, has issued a critical directive regarding the establishment of the Authority under the Pakistan Climate Change Act, 2017. The Bench, comprising Mr. Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Mr. Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan, and Mr. Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan, expressed significant concern over the delayed constitution of the Authority, emphasizing the urgent need for its formation before the upcoming monsoon season.

The Court noted that despite a prior order dated 1st July 2024, directing the constitution of the Authority within a fortnight, there has been no progress. The Ministry of Climate Change requested an additional month for completing interviews and formalizing the Authority. The Court has now set a final deadline of 15th August 2024 for the Authority's constitution, warning of potential contempt proceedings against the Secretary of the Ministry for further delays.

The Chairman of NDMA provided a detailed presentation on disaster management and flood prevention strategies, which was recorded as “Mark-A”. The Secretary of Climate Change referred to the Climate Change Policy 2012 (updated in 2022) and the "Living Indus" project but failed to provide substantial information on the steps taken to tackle climate change challenges.

The Chief Secretary of Punjab admitted the absence of a notified Provincial Climate Change Policy but mentioned its preparation in collaboration with experts. The Chief Secretary of Sindh highlighted several proactive measures, including afforestation, carbon credit trading, renewable energy investments, and climate-resilient infrastructure projects.

The Court scheduled for 31st July 2024, instructing the Attorney General and Chief Secretaries of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to present their submissions on the matter.

The Supreme Court's firm stance underscores the critical importance of an operational Climate Change Authority in addressing Pakistan's environmental challenges, particularly in light of the imminent monsoon rains. The urgency and gravity of the situation have been acknowledged, setting a precedent for future accountability in climate governance.