A Panel discussion on “River Indus: A Confluence of Economy and Culture” was organized by CCRD, COMSATS University Islamabad in Collaboration with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF), Pakistan on 9th December 2022 at Library Auditorium, COMSATS University Islamabad. The discussion aims to highlight the challenges faced by the Indus River System and its beneficiary communities after the recent mega-floods in Pakistan. The Opening remarks were given by Professor Dr. Sajid Qamar, Dean Faculty of Sciences. Mr. Ahmed Kamal, Chairman, of the Federal Flood Commission, Ministry of Water Resources, Govt. of Pakistan graced the occasion and share the ongoing initiatives. During his welcoming remarks, he stressed the collaboration between the government and educational institutions for joint ventures in addressing the water-related problems of Pakistan. He further informed about the contribution of the Government of Pakistan in achieving sustainability.
His talk was followed by the screening of a brief expedition documentary entitled “Director Cut Screening on River Indus” by Mr. Wajahat Malik. The expedition film depicted the present condition of the river Indus from the Himalayas up to the Arabian Sea and socioeconomic problems including water pollution and degrading water health and resources. The panelists included Mr. Wajahat Malik, Film Maker, and Explorer, Dr. Hassan Abbas, Hydrology and Water Resource Expert, and Dr. Hifza Rasheed, Secretary, PCRWR. The session was moderated by Dr. Rashid Aftab, Water Expert, Riphah Policy Institute, Riphah University Islamabad. The panelists discussed the issues that arise as the River Indus passes through different parts of Pakistan. The problems highlighted included the deteriorating water quality of rivers and the decrease in river flow due to dams. Dr. Hassan Abbas stressed the need for river health restoration. Dr. Hifza also highlighted the water quality issues that are increasing throughout the river.
The concluding remarks were given by Mr. Aamir Amjad, Senior Program Officer, FNF Pakistan. He stressed that our educational institutions should be more open for expert talks so the young students who will be leading the country in a few years, would get an opportunity to interact with subject experts carrying diverse perspectives. In the end, thanked the organizers of the event and the panelists.
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