I still vividly remember the definition of a word “Environment’ which one of my professors, Professor Dr (Late) Muhammad Ibrahim Pathan, of the Chemical and Environmental Engineering Department in the famous Mehran Engineering University, Jamshoro, taught us in his maiden lecture some 20 years ago.
The definition was as follows. The environment is the combination and interaction of all the physical factors that constitute the surroundings of human beings, including land, water, the atmosphere, sound, odour, taste, climate and other life such as animals and plants. The environment also covers social and cultural factors, both in the natural and built environment.
When I reflect on the prevalent environment in Pakistan today, I can say without any hemming and hawing that Pakistan is one of those countries where environmental crime is becoming increasingly organized in nature and can be seen. Indeed, ours is a country where all sorts of environmental crimes are committed by all and sundry. Look at the rampant burning of forests, both organized and natural forests, in the mountains in the vicinity of Islamabad during summer season which has become predominant feature. Look at also the chopping of precious trees along banks of various canals and highways. There are many other such examples.
These myopic, money-crazy enemies of the environment need to be awarded exemplary punishments for their crimes against the environment which is, in fact, a crime against life itself including mankind, plants and animals. Similarly, those who aid and abet such culprits to commit such environmental crimes may be also awarded rigorous punishment. The courts, in particular, the environmental tribunals and the civil society must come forward to save the environment and save the life on this planet.
HASHIM ABRO
Islamabad
