CM Punjab approves largest climate observatory to tackle climate change
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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the establishment of the region's largest and most advanced Climate Observatory, marking a major step in the province's efforts to address climate change.
A state-of-the-art scientific center will also be established as part of the initiative to enhance environmental data analysis and support evidence-based policymaking.
The approval came during a high-level meeting chaired by Punjab's Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. The meeting reviewed and endorsed the feasibility plan covering budget allocation, procurement of equipment, and land acquisition for the observatory.
The University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore presented its report on the project's technical aspects.
According to the official briefing, the observatory will be housed within the Punjab Planning and Development complex, while its primary structure will be constructed at the EICT (Environment and Information Communication Technology) site.
The facility will be equipped with an automated communication and linkage system, in addition to a GIS lab, sectoral interface systems, and a modern data hub. Advanced MRI-based systems will be employed for data processing and climate analysis.
A specialized internship program will be launched to train environmental experts across various sectors. The observatory will also include a data archiving system, a coordination unit, and an international communication cell to foster collaboration with global climate networks.
Officials emphasized that the institution will be managed under a modern governance model, and recruitment of internationally qualified professional staff is already under consideration.
Senior Minister Aurangzeb also directed the development of a smart organizational structure for efficient operations.
Briefing participants, experts noted that the Climate Observatory will play a critical role in forecasting climate threats, conducting real-time analysis, and supporting timely decision-making. It will significantly contribute to advancing scientific research and enable effective information exchange at the international level.
Commenting on the initiative, Marriyum Aurangzeb said, 'Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has presented a comprehensive plan to tackle the threats posed by climate change. The establishment of this observatory marks a transformative milestone in Punjab's environmental protection efforts.'
Climate observatories are specialized facilities equipped with modern tools to monitor atmospheric and environmental changes.
Experts use real-time data to detect potential threats and issue early warnings—vital for policy response and disaster preparedness.
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