SWABI: Speakers at daylong workshop held here on Sunday demanded that pressing environmental issues arising out of climate change should be addressed to avoid damage to people’s properties and the economy at large.

The workshop titled ‘Confronting Mountain Hazards in Climate Change’ was organised by the faculty of civil engineering of the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology. A diverse group of experts, researchers, and practitioners from across the country participated.

The event focused on addressing critical challenges related to mountain hazards in the context of climate change, which required immediate attention and practical steps.

The workshop featured insightful presentations and engaging panel discussions covering the multifaceted aspects of mountain hazards, including geotechnical and geological hazards.

The participants had the opportunity to explore the latest research, exchange ideas, and enhance practical skills to mitigate the impacts of climate change on mountainous regions, saving precious resource and people’s property.

Notable speakers included Eng Sohail Kibria, head of research and development at NESPAK, Dr Mohammad Shafique, associate professor at the Centre of Excellence Geology, University of Peshawar, Dr Mohammad Irfan, chief executive officer of Birudo Engineers, and Dr Mehtab Alam, assistant professor at GIK Institute.

The workshop underscored the institute’s dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges.

The experts from industry and academia shared their extensive knowledge through presentations, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the current state of geological, geotechnical, and mountain hazards within the context of climate change.

They said there was need of unwavering commitment to addressing global challenges through research, education and community engagement.

On the occasion, Prof Fazal Ahmad Khalid, Rector GIK Institute, said the varied perspectives shared by participants enriched the overarching discourse on addressing geological and geotechnical hazards in the age of climate changes.

Published in Dawn, December 4th, 2023