PUNJAB’S 2025-26 budget rightly includes over Rs5 billion for climate-focused projects, such as the Air Safe Programme, CM’s Plant for Pakistan Initiative, and enhancements to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, it is both surprising and disappointing that Faisalabad, which is one of the most industrialised and climate-vulnerable cities in Punjab, has not been allocated a single city-specific climate resilience project.

Faisalabad faces critical environmental challenges: worsening air quality, un-treated industrial and municipal wastewater flowing into rivers, rapidly depleting groundwater, and increasing incidents of heatwaves and urban flooding. Despite this, there is no mention of targeted funding for wastewater treatment, rain-water harvesting, urban forestry, or green infrastructure within the city.

While programmes, like the Rs2 billion Air Safe Programme and Rs1.3 billion plantation campaign, are commendable, they must include earmarked funds for Faisalabad. Likewise, the EPA’s capacity enhancement should focus on monitoring and enforcement in high-risk districts like Faisalabad.

The city contributes significantly to the province’s economy. It deserves a fair share of environmental protection and climate adaptation investments. Neglecting the city will affect local residents, and undercut Punjab’s broader environmental targets.

The provincial government must ensure Faisalabad’s inclusion in all ongoing and future climate-related initiatives. The cost of inaction will be far greater than the investment needed at the moment.

Naeem Ahmad
Faisalabad

Published in Dawn, August 9th, 2025