ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced a nationwide climate and agricultural emergency to counter the impacts of monsoon floods and worsening climate change in Pakistan.
Climate and Agricultural Emergency Strategy
During a cabinet meeting chaired by the prime minister, officials highlighted extensive damage to crops and infrastructure. Millions of acres of farmland are under water, leaving thousands of farmers struggling. After detailed discussions, the cabinet approved the climate and agricultural emergency in principle and directed immediate planning for recovery.
Provincial and National Coordination
The prime minister will soon chair a high-level meeting with all four provincial chief ministers and senior officials. The session will finalize a coordinated strategy for farmer compensation, agricultural rehabilitation, and rural development projects. The government stressed that food security and resilience to future climate events must remain top priorities.
Cabinet Condemns Malicious Campaigns
The cabinet also condemned derogatory social media campaigns against martyrs and the armed forces. PM Shehbaz said it was a national responsibility to honor martyrs and protect their legacy. Strict action will be taken against those spreading offensive material.
Tributes, Prayers, and Solidarity
The meeting paid tribute to Major Adnan Aslam Shaheed of the Bannu Operation and offered prayers for the families of federal ministers and senior politicians who recently lost loved ones. The cabinet also condemned Israeli airstrikes in Doha, expressing solidarity with Qatar.
Additional Approvals
Other cabinet decisions included approving RLNG connections to consumers, which will cost 30% less than LPG, and endorsing a trilateral feasibility study with Uzbekistan and Afghanistan for regional rail connectivity. These initiatives aim to strengthen both energy affordability and trade cooperation.
