Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday launched 'Clean Green Pakistan Index' in 19 cities of the country.
Addressing the launching ceremony of Clean Green Pakistan Index in Islamabad, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government's commitment to make Pakistan clean and green with the support of masses.
The barometer, called Clean Green Pakistan Index, aims at improving overall green and clean outlook of the Pakistani cities by kicking off competition amongst them on various indicators.
PM Imran urged every segment of the society including the administration, the elected representatives and the youth to become part of the clean and green initiative to fight environmental degradation and protect the future of this country.
He said it was due to the participation of the people that we planted one billion trees in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) over a period of five years.
"Now we will make the entire country green with particular focus on the cities where specific areas will be identified for plantation", Khan added.
The PM said the government will gradually increase funds for this campaign.
Describing the pollution as the silent killer, the prime minister regretted that Lahore has become the second or third most polluted cities in the world as no effort was made in the past to protect its environment. He said the last 10 years saw the city losing 70 percent of its green cover.
"This country is blessed with immense resources including twelve climatic zones, fertile land and natural resources”, the PM said adding that we need to value these resources in order to help the country stand on its own feet.
"Given the immense beauty of the country, it will be made a destination for tourism", PM Imran asserted.
Addressing the ceremony, Adviser to Prime Minister on Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam said that in first phase of the drive, healthy cleanliness competition will be conducted in 19 cities.
He said students from schools and universities are being engaged in the drive. He urged general public to make this drive success.
The adviser said the youth of country should register and participate in this drive and the government will recognize and reward those who actively participate.
Amin Aslam said electric vehicles will be introduced to reduce environmental pollution in the country.
The adviser said the government is planning to prevent the water wastage as thousands of gallons of clean water are being wasted in the sea due to lack of policies in utilizing water resources.
