AGP Executive Report

World Environment Day & clean energy: Pakistan’s first consumer-focused One-Stop-Shop (OSS) for clean energy solutions (sabzbijli.pk) was launched in Islamabad to help households and small businesses move to solar and renewables with trusted guidance. Punjab environment push: Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz urged people to plant more trees, keep natural resources safe, and continue action against plastic pollution, with an Environment Observatory project and air-quality alerts in progress. Green transport in Sindh: Sindh approved 100 more electric buses for public transport, aiming to cut emissions and pollution while improving urban mobility. Climate finance needs: A Pakistan climate workshop said the country needs about $565.7bn in climate-related investment by 2035 to meet updated targets and build resilience. Water & climate reality checks: A fact check on Gilgit-Baltistan’s Attabad Lake says it isn’t “drying up” so much as silt and sedimentation shrinking visible water. Governance & pollution control: Transparency International Pakistan flagged high corruption risk in infrastructure planning and implementation, warning governance gaps can undermine delivery. Local economy & sustainability: Punjab and Primark discussed cooperation to boost quality cotton production in the province.

Severe Weather Watch: NDMA has issued alerts for thunderstorms, heavy rain, hailstorms and possible landslides/flash floods across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK, urging extra caution in vulnerable northern districts. Heat Risk for Cities: A new study warns Lahore and Faisalabad could become among the world’s hottest cities by 2050 as El Niño boosts heat stress, with urban heat islands and reduced rainfall adding pressure. AI and the Environment: A UN report flags AI’s growing water, energy and land footprint, warning data centres could sharply raise electricity demand by 2030. Water and Climate Tensions: Coverage highlights how regional water disputes and dam impacts are tied to flood-control and power concerns, keeping Pakistan’s water security in focus. Local Policy Moves: Pakistan introduced a fixed 1% tax scheme for small retailers (up to Rs200m turnover) to broaden the tax net, while SBP’s Eid-ul-Azha “Go Cashless” push reported Rs34bn in digital transactions. Public Health & Safety: Karachi faces rising child road-injury risks as urban planning and enforcement lag behind fast growth.

World Environment Day Climate Push: President Zardari and PM Shehbaz used World Environment Day to warn that climate change is already hitting public health, food security and the economy, calling for stronger national and global action. Punjab Anti-Pollution Drive: CM Maryam Nawaz reiterated steps to cut plastic, expand tree planting and tighten anti-smog enforcement, citing improved air quality and a Punjab “environment observatory” early-warning push. Karachi Heat & Health Risk: A Karachi expert warned that urban heat is worsening due to dense construction, traffic, pollution and tree loss, raising risks for outdoor workers and public health. Karachi Offal Stench After Eid: More than a week after Eidul Azha, residents reported lingering foul smell from unattended animal waste and poor cleanup, especially near collection points. Rawal Lake Hazardous Waste: Pak-EPA found medical waste, syringes and plastics during a shoreline cleanup, highlighting risks to ecosystems and public health. Agri Storage Financing: Finance Ministry launched an Rs7.1bn agri-storage portfolio facility to mobilise private capital for silos and cold storage, aiming to cut post-harvest losses. Weather Outlook: PMD warned of a hotter, largely drier June-to-August with El Niño strengthening, raising concerns for crops and irrigation demand. Punjab Flood Preparedness Budget: Punjab proposed Rs52bn for the Board of Revenue budget, including disaster risk reduction and flood prevention projects. AI’s Environmental Cost: A new study says AI’s data-centre footprint is expanding fast, with major water and land impacts alongside emissions.

Severe Weather Watch: NDMA issued a 12–24 hour alert for thunderstorms, heavy rain, hailstorms, flash flooding, landslides and even glacial lake outburst flood risks across Punjab, KP, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, warning that strong winds could damage weak structures and disrupt key northern routes. Heat Risk Spotlight: A new Oxford-led study ranks Mumbai among the world’s top 50 heat-vulnerable cities, with Pakistan also appearing in the list—another reminder that extreme heat is becoming a public health and planning issue. Water & Climate Research Boost: KOICA signed a $10.97m, five-year grant with Pakistan’s water research council to improve water data, monitoring and integrated water resources management, with work planned in Islamabad and Karachi. AI’s Environmental Cost: A UN report warns AI data centres could drive huge water and land footprints by 2030, arguing carbon-only thinking misses the biggest local impacts. Agri Storage Push: InfraZamin launched an agri-storage financing facility to mobilize up to Rs7.1bn for silos, warehouses and cold storage—aimed at cutting post-harvest losses for wheat, grains, fruits and vegetables. EV Momentum in Punjab: Punjab approved an interest-free e-bike and electric taxi scheme for youth, linking cleaner transport with jobs and mobility access. Water Conflict Alert: Pakistan accused India of “weaponising” Chenab water via a Chenab–Beas tunnel plan, saying it violates the Indus Waters Treaty and international water law.

Defence & Tech Risk: Bangladesh’s reported push for China-designed, Pakistan-manufactured JF-17 jets is drawing fresh scrutiny over battlefield reliability and “Operation Sindoor” lessons, raising fears of a costly strategic misstep. Heat & Rain Watch: PMD says June brings below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures, but twin cities got relief from rain and cool winds; Lahore may see intermittent showers. Water & Urban Safety: Punjab Saaf Pani Authority plans faster filtration and monitoring, deploying a 100-motorcycle squad and geo-tagged complaints; Karachi’s KMC also declared a June 8 holiday for Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi Urs while essential services keep running. Road Safety in Karachi: Indus Motor Company and NED University will set up an Urban Mobility Implementation Unit to target high-risk accident spots and improve traffic safety. Climate Finance for Women: Pakistan’s Gender and Climate Awards spotlight women-led resilience, urging more investment in grassroots climate action. Energy & Industry: OGDCL reports new oil and gas reserves in Sindh, while Pakistan’s budget talks continue ahead of June 10. Air & Biodiversity: Lahore’s air pollution remains a concern as AQI hits 210, and reports note wildlife pressures like declining bat populations.

Air Quality & Health: Lahore is back at the top of global pollution rankings, with AQI hitting 210 (“very unhealthy”), prompting urgent advisories for children, the elderly, and respiratory patients to limit outdoor exposure. Industrial Pollution Crackdown: Punjab launched a province-wide drive against illegal factories in residential areas, demolishing a polluting tannery and a hide-storage warehouse in Chiniot after complaints of foul odours and health impacts. Heat & Rain Outlook: PMD warns June–August will bring below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures across most of Pakistan, raising risks of heatwaves, water stress, and pressure on farming. Budget & Development Signals: Pakistan’s federal budget for FY 2026-27 is set for June 10, with coalition talks on relief for households and a proposed PSDP increase from Rs 1.126trn to Rs 1.320trn. Tobacco Control: WHO honoured Pakistan’s Tobacco Control Cell with its World No Tobacco Day Award, citing major public health work and tobacco taxation support. Cybersecurity Skills: Government unveiled a plan to train 3,500 cybersecurity professionals and hold a national hackathon to strengthen digital defenses.

Climate & Forests: A human-caused forest fire in Punjab’s Kotli Sattian destroyed about 3,326 hectares of pine cover, with satellite analysis pointing to major damage in Chir pine forests—another reminder that Pakistan’s climate resilience depends on stronger forest protection. Water Governance: A new report warns Pakistan’s water crisis is no longer just scarcity but poisoned rivers and collapsing oversight, with pollution in the Indus Basin threatening public health and food security. Wildlife & Cities: Lahore’s bat population is declining as urbanisation, shrinking green spaces and light pollution reduce habitat, while misconceptions about bats add pressure on conservation. Disaster Risk: NDMA issued a landslide alert for northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and AJK through Saturday, citing rainfall and glacier melt and warning of road blockages on key routes like the Karakoram Highway and Naran-Kaghan. Policy & Economy: PM Shehbaz ordered ministries to consult experts for tech integration and industrial modernisation; meanwhile, business confidence fell sharply as Middle East tensions, inflation and fuel costs delay investment. Budget Signals: PIDE urged a rules-based minimum wage hike to Rs45,000, and Pakistan’s FCC ruled poultry feed makers/farmers aren’t liable for extra tax on supplies to unregistered entities.

Climate & Disaster Risk: NDMA issued landslide alerts for northern Pakistan and AJK from June 2–6, citing ongoing rain and glacier melt that could trigger road blockages and localised flooding. Heat & Forest Loss: A heatwave-linked forest fire in Kotli Sattian (Punjab) destroyed about 3,037 hectares of chir pine forest, with satellite damage confirmed by SUPARCO and experts warning of long ecological fallout. Agriculture Reform Push: Growers urged Pakistan to overhaul farming policy with climate-resilient seeds, better research, subsidised fertiliser, guaranteed crop pricing, and tech support to stabilise declining yields. Healthcare Modernisation: Pakistan is in talks with Saudi Arabia to launch a nationwide digital health records system to reduce fragmented paper records and improve continuity of care. Budget Watch: The federal budget timeline shifted as the NEC meeting was postponed; sources say the FY27 budget may now be presented around June 8–12, amid IMF-linked PSDP negotiations. Energy/Transport Infrastructure: Communications minister approved a 172km Mansehra–Kaghan–Naran–Jhal Khand–Chilas motorway via a 13.5km Babusar Tunnel as an alternative to the KKH. Digital Economy Tax Move: Pakistan is considering a crypto tax framework for FY27, including capital gains taxation on trading profits.

Heat & disaster risk: NDMA/NEOC issued a nationwide weather advisory for intense heat plus thunderstorms, flash floods, GLOFs, landslides and wildfire risks, while PMD forecasts dust-thunderstorm rain with isolated heavy falls and hail across Punjab, Islamabad, parts of KP, AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan from June 2–5/6. Public health warning: New research says heat waves are more deadly than cities plan for, with South Asia’s extreme heat likely causing far higher mortality than reported—so early protection matters. Budget pressure on development: Under IMF oversight, Pakistan’s 2026-27 growth target is set at 4% with inflation at 8.2%, but PSDP allocations fall far short of needs, risking rejection/shelving of projects worth nearly Rs3tn. Exports hit: Mango export targets were cut to 80,000 tonnes amid Middle East tensions, higher freight costs and climate-linked yield drops. Power grid upgrade: ADB proposed a USD 130m loan to modernize power distribution with digital systems across five DISCOs. Trade & taxes: PM Shehbaz met business leaders ahead of Budget 2026-27, promising faster refunds by June 15 and shifting PRAL HQ to Karachi; meanwhile freelancers want the 0.25% tax on foreign earnings retained. Security & diplomacy: Pakistan urged an immediate Lebanon ceasefire at the UN and pushed de-escalation via mediation; EU’s Kaja Kallas praised Pakistan’s role in averting full-scale US-Iran conflict. Legal row: NCCIA challenged a Supreme Court order on suspending sentences for Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha, asking the apex court to withdraw it. Wildlife: A rare vulture was rescued near Rahim Yar Khan.

EU-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue: EU’s Kaja Kallas met PM Shehbaz in Islamabad, praising Pakistan’s mediation role in US-Iran efforts and urging talks to keep the ceasefire on track, with the EU saying it’s ready to help via maritime operations and economic incentives. Budget & Industry: PM Shehbaz told business leaders the June 5 budget will support industrial growth, including clearing tax refund cases by June 15 and moving PRAL HQ to Karachi to boost exports. Freelancers’ Tax Relief: Pakistan freelancers asked to extend the 0.25% tax on foreign earnings for 10 years, plus training and freelancing hubs. SECP Transparency Push: SECP introduced a statutory compliance certificate framework to improve corporate transparency and investor confidence. Weather Watch: PMD forecast dust-thunderstorm rain from June 2-5 across Punjab, Islamabad and parts of AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan, with possible heavy falls and hail. Cotton Market: Cotton prices fell in Punjab and Sindh as global volatility hit local rates, while ginners urged sales tax relief. CPEC 2.0 Idea: An OpEd argues CPEC’s next phase should shift from roads/power to production, exports and climate-smart growth.

Climate Justice: A new analysis argues Pakistan is hit hardest by climate shocks despite contributing only about 1% of global emissions, highlighting floods and heat as symptoms of global inequality. Public Health & Heat: Reporting warns this year’s sustained heatwave across India and Pakistan is unusually dangerous, with heat + humidity driving deaths and stressing power demand. Water & Karachi: Karachi’s water woes continue as power cuts at Dhabeji Pumping Station repeatedly disrupt supply, leaving residents in North Nazimabad and nearby areas struggling during peak heat. Wildlife Science: A study finds the “Himalayan pit viper” is actually five separate species, reshaping how biodiversity in Pakistan’s mountains is understood. Elections & Security (GB): Interior Minister briefed PM Shehbaz on law-and-order plans for Gilgit-Baltistan elections, with Punjab sending 6,000 police to help maintain a safer electoral environment. Pollution & Waste: Karachi’s Eid waste and toxic stench problem is again in focus, with civic failures blamed for piling animal waste. Heritage & Conservation: A World Bank delegation visited Taxila Museum and UNESCO sites, spotlighting conservation work for Gandharan heritage. Tobacco Control: Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz urges stronger anti-smoking enforcement in schools and public places ahead of World No Tobacco Day.

Urban Sanitation & Waste: Karachi’s civic cleanup remains in the spotlight as reports say toxic stench and huge piles of animal waste after Eid have choked the city, raising public-health alarms. Water & Heat Risks: Pakistan’s heat and disaster preparedness stay urgent, with NDMA warnings about heatwaves plus flash-flood and landslide risks, and advisories for safer travel in snowy mountain areas like Babusar Top. Power Policy: Power Minister Awais Leghari denied claims that subsidies for “protected” consumers are being withdrawn, saying most domestic users still get subsidised electricity. Environment & Nature: A spotlight on the Sidr tree highlights how native desert species support biodiversity and livelihoods under drought stress. Local Governance: KMC halted illegal construction near Hill Park and moved toward police action after finding no permits or land allotment. EU Engagement: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas is set to visit Islamabad for the EU-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, with climate cooperation flagged among key topics. Security & Rights: Curfew-related shortages in Balochistan’s Mashkay add to concerns over access to healthcare and basic supplies.

Heat & Health: Dadu in Sindh hit a new record high of 51.5°C as a severe heatwave keeps scorching parts of the province; PMD and disaster authorities warn children and the elderly to avoid direct sun. Water Security: The government says it’s speeding up four mega dam projects to add over 8 MAF of storage, aiming to manage the Indus Basin’s highly seasonal flows. Disaster Resilience: NDRMF invested Rs903 million to strengthen health emergency response in 15 Balochistan hospitals, plus flood protection, small dams and early warning support. Clean Cities: Punjab’s Suthra Punjab wrapped up Eid-ul-Azha cleanliness, mobilising 184,000 workers and 60,000 vehicles to remove 360,000 tonnes of animal waste. Ports & Pollution Risk: Karachi Port collision between a container ship and a cable-laying vessel is under preliminary investigation; ships are barred from leaving while authorities probe alleged negligence. Governance & Rights: Sindh High Court orders an inquiry into FIA officers accused of blocking citizens’ bank and mobile accounts without legal orders, directing restoration where applicable. Elections Watch: KP CM Sohail Afridi urges GB’s top court to ensure transparent June 7 polls, citing reports of harassment and restrictions on PTI campaigning. Regional Diplomacy: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas is set to visit Islamabad, with talks expected to cover security, energy and climate action.

Karachi Sanitation Crisis: Eidul Azha offal disposal turned into a citywide stench as citizens’ negligence, weak civic performance and illegal dumping left heaps of waste across Karachi, with residents complaining even after the three-day cleanup. Water Governance in Sindh: IRSA kept its “equalising water shortage” plan despite Sindh’s objections, as a 22% water shortage persists; meanwhile Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah met the World Bank to push timely Karachi water projects including K-IV augmentation, metering and KW&SC reforms. Port Safety: Two cargo ships collided near Karachi Port; no injuries were reported, but officials are investigating possible container loss and hull damage after tugs escorted the holed cable ship for repairs. Budget Countdown: President Zardari summoned National Assembly and Senate budget sessions for June 5 as Pakistan faces IMF-linked reform pressure and regional volatility from the US-Iran conflict. UN Peacekeeping & Climate Threats: Pakistan marked UN Peacekeepers Day warning that missions now face cyber and misinformation risks plus climate-driven humanitarian emergencies. Eid Food Safety: Punjab carried out 1,012 food inspections during Eid, issuing corrective notices and fines, including joint checks at tourist spots. Tourism & Heat Relief: Swat and Kaghan valleys saw heavy Eid crowds seeking cooler weather and nature. Trade & Industry Pressure: Exporters and textile bodies renewed calls for tax and policy relief, while Gadoon industrialists warned of shutdowns due to power outages, gas loadshedding and high logistics costs. Biodiversity Note: A study says the “Himalayan pit viper” is actually five separate species, including new ones found in Pakistan and Nepal.

Heatwave Health Alert: A sustained heatwave across India and Pakistan is driving record electricity demand, worsening drought, and raising heat-related deaths, with experts warning official figures likely undercount the toll. Karachi Water Security: Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah met the World Bank to push timely completion of the K-IV water supply scheme, stressing modern, sustainable water management and tackling hurdles in Karachi’s water and sewerage reforms. CPEC & Investment Push: Pakistan and China held a B2B investment conference in Hangzhou, signing new MoUs under CPEC 2.0 themes like tech, agriculture, fintech, and energy storage—aimed at boosting investment and local opportunities. UN Peacekeeping Spotlight: Pakistan marked International Day of UN Peacekeepers with renewed support for missions, citing decades of Pakistani “Blue Helmets” service and sacrifices, including deployments facing climate-driven challenges. Balochistan Rights vs Mining: Civil society groups urged international banks to pause financing for the Reko Diq mine, alleging human rights risks and lack of meaningful consultation in militarized conditions. PoJK Timber Smuggling: A PSO tanker was reportedly seized in Neelum Valley with hidden compartments carrying illegal timber worth millions, pointing to organized smuggling networks. Middle East Aid & Food Risks: The UN warned that obstacles to humanitarian aid deliveries to Afghanistan are worsening as transport disruptions cut food stocks for vulnerable mothers and children.

Heatwave & health: Sustained extreme heat across India and Pakistan is proving deadly, with reports of at least 37 heat deaths in India and 10 in Pakistan, as humidity blocks the body’s cooling and drought conditions worsen. Eid waste crackdown: Punjab used drones for the first time to monitor Eid-ul-Azha cleanup, with officials citing large-scale collection and around-the-clock sanitation teams. Karachi sacrificial waste: Karachi police arrested eight over dumping of sacrificial waste in Keamari, as authorities push stricter enforcement during Eid. Wildlife & biodiversity: Pakistan’s wetlands and houbara population face extinction threats, raising alarms for habitat protection. Animal welfare: Six people were arrested in a Bahrain rooster-fight case after an animal rights complaint, spotlighting cruelty and illegal animal fighting. Climate & conflict: New research links the Gaza war to major emissions and warns that conflict-driven climate impacts are being overlooked. Water & diplomacy: Pakistan’s mediation role in US-Iran talks continues, with Gulf shipping through the Strait of Hormuz at the center of negotiations.