Staff reporter
ISLAMABAD: Despite having a very low carbon footprint, Pakistan is the fifth most affected country by the adverse effects of climate change. Steps are being taken to overcome the adverse effects of climate change through the promotion of alternative energy based products. Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif chaired an important meeting on the affairs of Petroleum Division today in Islamabad. Talking to the participants of the meeting, the Prime Minister said that we need to focus on the promotion of alternative energy sources, especially solar energy. He said that Thar Coal is very important for the energy needs of Pakistan. He directed to develop a strategy regarding gasification of Thar Coal. He further directed that all necessary steps should be taken regarding the railway line for the access of Thar Kol to other parts of the country. The meeting was briefed on the progress and proposals regarding petroleum and gas sectors. The meeting was told that despite having a very low carbon footprint, Pakistan is the fifth most affected country by the adverse effects of climate change; Steps are being taken to overcome the adverse effects of climate change through promotion of alternative energy based products; A plan of action will be prepared regarding the increase in production of tight gas. The meeting was informed that smart meters will be installed to prevent theft from oil and gas pipelines. In the briefing given to the meeting, it was said that the policy regarding electric bikes, vehicles and electric household products is being worked on; proposals regarding deregulation of the petroleum sector will be worked on; petrol and gas The search process will be completely digitized. Steps are being taken to ensure competitiveness in the petroleum and gas sector; strategies are being formulated to increase oil and gas production at the local level; Steps will also be taken to promote biofuels. The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Petroleum Mossadegh Malik, Federal Minister for Power Owais Ahmed Khan Laghari, Prime Minister’s Coordinator Rana Ehsan Afzal and relevant senior government officials.
