Shehersaaz took a leading role at ICRE 2025 as the primary strategic partner and training lead, shaping conversations on climate resilience and inclusive urban development. Technical sessions led by Mr. Abdul Shakoor Sindhu addressed Pakistan’s climate vulnerabilities and low-cost adaptation solutions, while Ms. Almas Shakoor championed inclusive urban design at the “People-Centered Streets” panel, promoting safe and walkable public spaces for all.

Mr. Shakoor delivered an engaging session on the critical role of society and the state in building climate resilience, emphasizing collective responsibility, inclusive governance, and community-driven action. His session highlighted practical insights and policy-linked guidance, showing how empowered citizens and responsive institutions form the foundation of sustainable, future-ready communities.

The training program concluded with a meaningful closing ceremony led by Ms. Almas Shakoor, who appreciated participants’ efforts and distributed shields and hampers to teachers and students. Shehersaaz proudly celebrated the dedication of partners, educators, and young learners shaping a more informed, resilient, and climate-ready generation.

Shehersaaz, accomplished yet another milestone by successfully concluding its PROGRESSIVE program, for which a ceremony was held in Rawalpindi. This included a formal handing over of Rainwater Harvesting Units to 18 government schools-a new benchmark toward climate-resilient and eco-sensitive learning spaces.

This occasion brought together officials from the education department, school principals, project teams, and community partners, and other stakeholders to celebrate this milestone. The CEO, District Education Authority Rawalpindi, Tariq Mehmood appreciated Shehersaaz for being a strong advocate of sustainable education through strengthening school-level resilience via practical community-centered solutions.

Project Manager Dr. Beenish gave an insightful overview of the PROGRESSIVE initiative within the project PUCCAR. She explained how each Rainwater Harvesting Unit was designed, installed, and integrated within school routines for better water security and increased environmental awareness among students and teachers alike.

A dynamic question-and-answer session with on-site engineer Abdullah further highlighted technical processes, key challenges, and the collaboration that shaped the success of the program.

The Disaster Risk Reduction component in the PROGRESSIVE program is very robust, preparing the students for real-life challenges. Specifically targeted trainings in first aid, solid waste management, and care for the environment have equipped the students with the skills to segregate wastes, produce compost, and establish kitchen gardens in their respective schools. All these activities give hands-on practice to the students while building a culture of responsibility, preparedness, and climate consciousness.

The signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation with principals of the 18 participating schools was the defining moment of the ceremony. This is where each school formalizes its commitment to maintain the systems provided and takes full ownership of all components contributing to its transformation into a PROGRESSIVE SCHOOL.

The program, which is implemented in partnership with UN Habitat and the Adaptation Fund, comprises far more than just water-related solutions-it involves urban farming and energy-efficient measures, too, thereby transforming schools into active hubs of both resilience and sustainability.

It was followed by the 29th anniversary celebration of Shehersaaz, which marked almost three decades of leading sustainable urban development and community-based climate action. PROGRESSIVE reflects the unwavering vision and capability that constitute Shehersaaz's success. Combining innovation and collaboration to engage with communities, Shehersaaz further shapes smarter, safer, and more sustainable cities for future generations.

At the heart of F 9 Park, Islamabad, pulsated the Sheher Mela hosted by Shehersaaz in partnership with CDA, UN Habitat, the Adaptation Fund and DHA Islamabad. The Sheher Mela was a deeply immersive celebration of art, culture, science, technology and community voices. Held to mark the sixty fifth anniversary celebrations of Islamabad's Master Plan and World Cities Day 2025, the Mela converted this park into a vibrant canvas of ideas and experiences.

At the hub of the festival was the ECO Market showcasing innovative, green, and smart solutions that spoke to the future of sustainable urban living. The visitors toured electric buses, modern two-wheelers, and environmentally friendly technologies displaying what is possible in a cleaner and smarter Islamabad.



Citizens’ Corner opened an honest space for public expression, where residents shared their story, hopes, concerns and recommendations for their city. Illustrator and caricature artist Akhtar Ali Shah, affectionately termed as Shahtoon, translated these feelings into expressive visual narratives. His caricatures added a creative dimension to the city's collective memory.

Live performances only added to the magic in the air. Ahang Kada played the rhythms of rabab and tabla, while One Drum Circle engaged all with their, well, united beats. The evening concluded with The City Sings Concert, with powerhouse performances by Coke Studio fame Mulazim Hussain, the soulful Hazel Khan, and sitar maestro Amir Hussain.



Islamabad Sheher Mela stood as a testament to Shehersaaz's mission: building cities that are safe, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. It wove culture, creativity, innovation, and community participation together to remind one and all that cities thrive when people come together with imagination, pride, and a shared sense of belonging.

Islamabad was witness to one invigorating morning of dialogue, insight, and urban vision as Shehersaaz, the leading voice for sustainable cities in Pakistan, gathered national leadership, planners, and city thinkers for the Sheher Seminar. Organized in collaboration with CDA, UN Habitat, the Adaptation Fund, and DHA Islamabad, the seminar took place on October 30 and was thoughtfully aligned with the global observance of World Cities Day on October 31. By hosting the seminar a day in advance, Shehersaaz raised the bar on the importance of this occasion and put together a forceful platform to celebrate urban resilience, sustainability, and collective responsibility.



Contributions that further enriched the session were made by Ch. Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Chairman CDA; Jawed Ali Khan, Senior Advisor and HPM UN Habitat; and Ms. Almas Shakoor, Executive Director Shehersaaz. Ms. Shakoor’s vision of resilient citizen-centered cities simply underlined Shehersaaz’s leading role in guiding urban transformation in Pakistan. All put together, the speakers gave a comprehensive overview of Islamabad’s planning direction, its evolving urban landscape, and the collaborative momentum required to shape a sustainable future.



The technical session added immensely to the substance of the seminar. Expert presentations on Islamabad's planning history, its challenges related to environment, spatial growth and climate resilience followed. All these pointed to the importance of long term vision, as championed by Shehersaaz in creating adaptive and future ready cities.



A documentary titled “Islamabad 1960 to 2025. A Journey of 65 Years” introduced an artistic and historical layer in the event, prepared by the PR Directorate CDA. The film served as a visual tribute to Islamabad’s planning heritage and the aspirations that continue to define its growth. More than an anniversary observance, the Sheher Seminar attested to Shehersaaz's leadership in reimagining Pakistani cities. Through informed dialogue, meaningful partnerships, and community engagement, Shehersaaz advances its mission of promoting safe, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities where knowledge, creativity, and people come together with purpose and vision.

Lahore, 23rd and 24th September, 2025
Shehersaaz proudly participated and was the conference partner at the South Asia Rainwater Network (SARNET) International Conference on Rainwater Harvesting 2025, held in Islamabad, bringing together global experts, policymakers, and practitioners to deliberate on sustainable water management and climate resilience.

The two-day conference, by SARNET in collaboration with Shehersaaz as their major Conference Partners, revolved around the theme “CONSERVING BLUE DIAMONDS Creating Climate Resilience Through Rainwater Conservation & Management”. The event provided a significant platform to exchange experiences and best practices from across South Asia, Central Africa, and the Middle East, focusing on both regional and global perspectives on rainwater conservation.

The inaugural session featured a keynote address by Mr. Han Heijnen, President IRHA, Switzerland, followed by country presentations from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, India, Bhutan, Iran, Malawi, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Experts shared national case studies on traditional practices, innovative technologies, and policy frameworks that are reshaping rainwater harvesting approaches globally.

Representing Shehersaaz, Ms. Anahita Sajjad, Manager Communications and Networking, delivered an insightful presentation titled “Turning Rain into Resilience: Rain Harvesting to Climate Adaptation.” Her talk highlighted Shehersaaz’s ongoing initiatives to implement rainwater harvesting systems in urban and institutional settings, addressing urban flooding, water scarcity, and climate adaptation challenges. She emphasized the organization’s community-driven approach and the integration of nature-based solutions to promote water security across cities in Pakistan.

The conference also featured technical sessions led by UN agencies, I/NGOs, and academia, including discussions on groundwater recharge, rooftop rainwater systems, and youth-led innovations for water management. Delegates collectively called for greater regional collaboration, policy coherence, and capacity-building to mainstream rainwater harvesting into national development and climate strategies.

Concluding with remarks from the Chief Guest and a vote of thanks by Engr. Syed Zaheer Hussain Gardezi, the conference reaffirmed that rainwater harvesting is not merely a conservation practice—it is a pathway to resilience and sustainable urban futures.

Shehersaaz remains committed to advocating for climate-resilient cities and water-secure communities, turning every drop of rain into an opportunity for change.

The ECO-Market (May 25)

Celebrating Sustainability and Style

The 3rd Shehersaaz Eco-Market was successfully held on 23rd & 24th May 2025 at Rawalpindi Gymkhana Club, bringing together over 30 stalls dedicated to promoting eco-friendly and sustainable living.

This market brought another addition of green and sustainable inventiveness — it was a celebration of conscious living. The vibrant energy, green aesthetics, and shared passion for the environment brought families, friends, students, and professionals together under one green cause. The two-day event offered not just eco-conscious shopping, but also a space for learning, interaction, and community building.

For the first time, three green-forward industries participated, showcasing services from solar panel technologies to PVC water management systems, adding great depth to the market’s environmental narrative.

Shehersaaz proudly presented its initiatives through uniquely crafted bamboo stalls, sustainably designed in-house by our brilliant “design and architecture team”. These stalls stood as a symbol of our commitment to responsible innovation and sustainable design.

We thank all our partners, stall holders, and visitors for making this event a grand success once again. Together, we continue to grow a movement toward greener, cleaner cities.


Click here for more event details

December 8, 2024 - Shehersaaz successfully launched its first ever Eco-Market, creating an inspiring space to celebrate sustainability and environmental consciousness. Held at a carefully selected venue that complemented the natural ambiance, the event was part of the organization’s longstanding environmental campaign, "Ain-Amal," which began in 2013.

The Eco-Market brought together 15 eco-friendly businesses showcasing sustainable products ranging from reusable packaging to organic skincare and eco-conscious crafts. A live food court, featuring a variety of delicious and sustainably prepared dishes, added a lively and engaging element to the event. To reinforce the market's eco-friendly ethos, all materials used during the event were sustainable, contributing to an environmentally responsible gathering.

The event was graced by the presence of Ms. Rina, Chairperson of IWMB, and Ms. Samina Fazil, President of the Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as chief guests. Ms. Rina commended Shehersaaz for its dedication to environmental stewardship, while Ms. Samina Fazil highlighted the empowering impact of the Eco-Market on women entrepreneurs and sustainable businesses.

Another highlight of the event was a special moment when Ms. Almas Shakoor, Executive Director of Shehersaaz, personally presented each stallholder with a beautifully crafted ceramic souvenir. This gesture not only recognized their contributions but also underscored Shehersaaz’s commitment to fostering eco-friendly entrepreneurship. Ms. Shakoor expressed her heartfelt appreciation for their dedication to promoting sustainable practices.

Mr. Abdul Shakoor, Chairperson of Shehersaaz, also addressed the audience, sharing his insightful perspective on the importance of such markets in driving environmental change. He emphasized the significance of creating platforms like the Eco-Market to inspire communities to adopt eco-conscious habits and thanked the Shehersaaz team for their exceptional efforts in making the inaugural event a resounding success.

Shehersaaz believes that eco-markets are crucial for fostering environmental awareness and action. These markets encourage communities to support sustainable businesses, adopt eco-conscious lifestyles, and reduce their environmental impact. By uniting stakeholders across various sectors, such events reflect Shehersaaz’s unwavering commitment to a greener future.

Building on the success of this inaugural event, Shehersaaz is thrilled to announce that the next Eco-Market will take place in February 2025. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to champion sustainability and innovation for a healthier planet.

World Environment Day &

Ain-Amal Awards 2024

June 5, 2024 SHEHERSAAZ hosted a significant event at NUST Islamabad, in celebration of World Environment Day. 

The event, which focused on the theme of land degradation, desertification, and drought resilience, was held in partnership with the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), Cheezious and FM101, supported by UN-Habitat, Adaptation Fund and Ministry of Climate Change. 

Notable guests included Ms. Nusrat Nasab CEO AKAH who shared insightful remarks, Principal and Dean SCEE, Mr. Muhammad Irfan, who shared his remarks, and Dr. Rizwan Riaz, Pro-Rector (RIC) NUST, who congratulated Shehersaaz and their partners on the successful event.

A dynamic panel discussion was also held, addressing critical environmental challenges and potential solutions for building resilience against desertification and drought. An Environment Song was showcased which really built up energy by Mr. Furqan Ahmad, an impactful drama was also presented by students of NUST by the name "Faryad" which truly took away lots of praise. Call for Environment Movies was made by Mr.Syed Husnain Raza, founder PIWEFF. Videos on Land Degradation and Death of a River were presented by Shehersaaz. 

Winners of Ain-Amal Awards were presented the first living awards in Pakistan ever to be presented in celebrating green projects and initiatives. Winners were also presented cash prizes along with cerificates.

School Based Basic First Aid Trainings

As part of our ongoing (Project for Urban Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience-PUCCAR) Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) activities Shehersaaz in collaboration with Rescue 1122, recently conducted a pioneering certified training session on Basic First Aid, marking a significant stride in disaster risk reduction. 

Over three days May 2nd to May 4th, 2024 students and teachers from the Govt. MC Girls High School Ratta Amral, were equipped with crucial skills in communication, safety protocols, bleeding control, and CPR. These workshops play a pivotal role in empowering communities with lifesaving techniques and fostering a culture of preparedness.
Such training sessions are indispensable as they not only enhance individual capacity but also bolster community resilience in the face of emergencies. By imparting knowledge on immediate response measures, they enable individuals to take proactive steps in mitigating risks and providing timely assistance. Moreover, these workshops foster a sense of collective responsibility, encouraging participants to become agents of change within their communities. Thanks to Rescue 1122 and their Master Trainers for their amazing practical and interactive training sessions which were truly an exciting learning experience. These Trainings shall continue and Shehersaaz will keep providing the opportunity to other Public/Govt School in Rawalpindi in order to prepare the students and teachers to be well equipped while dealing with emergencies. 

In a world fraught with uncertainties, the importance of first aid training cannot be overstated. It serves as a cornerstone in building a safer and more resilient society, where every individual is equipped to respond effectively in times of crisis. Through such initiatives Shehersaaz take strides towards a future where lives are safeguarded, and communities stand united in the face of adversity. We are thankful to our donor Adaptation Fund and UN-HABITAT for providing us the financial support in making a positive impact in our communities and be prepared for any unforeseen emergency.

Stakeholder Meeting Focused on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11 and 13 by Shehersaaz in collaboration with SDG Section, Ministry of Planning and Special Initiatives (MoP&SI)

Shehersaaz in collaboration with the SDG Section convened a pivotal stakeholder meeting centered around Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11 and 13 on February 13, 2024 at the esteemed PPMI Complex in Islamabad. This gathering served as a platform to facilitate dialogue, share insights, and devise actionable strategies in pursuit of these paramount SDGs.

The meeting commenced with the solemn recitation of the Holy Quran emphasizing the profound spiritual underpinnings guiding our collective efforts towards sustainable development.

Ms. Almas Shakoor, Executive Director of Shehersaaz, extended a warm welcome to the esteemed attendees, stressing the pressing need for collective action to address the challenges posed by urbanization and climate change.

Mr. Zafar ul Hassan, the esteemed Joint Chief Economist of the Government of Pakistan, graced the occasion as the keynote speaker, offering invaluable insights into the economic dimensions and policy implications underlying SDGs 11 and 13.

He opened that the representative local governments do not exist and local urban affairs are managed by bureaucracy, he mentioned that we are a classic example of economic growth without development, he was also of the view that it’s an irony that 80% of taxes are collected from urban areas however cities do not receive reciprocal attention from the decision makers. There is a need to invest in urban services and infrastructure and Urban development needs to be appropriately incorporated in the upcoming 5 year plan so that the new government can take this agenda forward.

Following this, Ms. Almas Shakoor provided an insightful introduction to Shehersaaz and its flagship initiative, the Project for Urban Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience (PUCCAR), reaffirming the organization's steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable urban development.

The status of SDGs was eloquently presented by Ms. Rida Najam, Assistant Chief of the SDG Section, she highlighted that by 2030 according to SDG index projected results there will be 20% expected gaps in the achievement of the planned targets.

Ms. Aiman Amjad, Assistant Chief of the SDG Section shared a comprehensive analysis of SDGs 11 and 13. She shared that SDG 11 deals with 10 areas however the data is available for only 4 of them. She put forward two important questions for the stakeholders 1- Why data is missing and 2- how to accelerate the progress for SDG 11 and 13.

A compelling video presentation further enriched the discourse, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in SDGs 11 and 13.

 

Panel Discussion:

The focal point of the meeting was the esteemed panel discussion on the status of SDGs 11 and 13, where distinguished panelists lent their expertise, highlighting critical gaps, challenges, and potential solutions to accelerate progress. The esteemed panelists included:

1.Mr. Javed Ali Khan, Country Program Manager, UN-Habitat

2. Mr. Abdul Shakoor, Chairperson Shehersaaz
3. Ms. Nusrat Nasab, CEO Agha Khan Agency for Habitat, Pakistan
4. Mr. Muhammad Ali Kemal, Chief SDG Section
5. Dr. Fahad Saeed, CEO, WENCLIMS

Each panelist eloquently articulated their perspectives, fostering a rich exchange of ideas.

According to Mr. Javed Ali Khan Cities are engines of economic growth but it is high time to consider that if engine is not performing well how the vehicle will move forward, he mentioned that UN-Habitat is providing technical support to Federal and Provincial Govt in various areas for the achievement of SDG 11.

Ms. Nusrat Nasab was of the view that if we adopt a right vision for urban development there are possibilities to improve the urban development discourse in Pakistan, she informed the participants that Agha Khan Network is the focal agency for Urban Development and Climate change and undertaking various projects in these areas. She also emphasized that cities cannot progress without reforming unless individuals become responsible citizens.

Mr. Abdul Shakoor Sindhu was of the view that our cities can offer abundant opportunities for economic and social growth provided we adopt right course of action, he highlighted that there is an urgent need for Urban Land Reforms to counter the land hoarding that is discouraging affordable housing and public centric just development. He suggested that union councils and neighborhood councils are the basic administrative units in Pakistan but there is a need to make them as a basic development unit and Data can easily be generated at Union Council Level. Mr. Sindhu highlighted, that cities across the country need fiscal space so that they can raise revenues to fulfill their own budget needs and are financially self sufficient.

Mr. Ali Kemal said that they face challenges in collecting data from relevant federal ministries and provincial departments, he informed that according to one view 80% of Pakistan’s Population has become urban. Local govt especially urban authorities need to regularly undertake urban surveys to address the serious gap in Urban data

Mr. Fahad Saeed mentioned for Pakistan climate change revolves around Adaptation, he highlighted that Pakistan’s geographical location makes it vulnerable to climate induced hazards. Climate change adaptation is a bottom-up approach so we need to focus on community-based adaptation, side by side we need to take into account the factors like reducing population growth improving gender equality and empowering women. All these issues are closely interlinked. We need local solutions instead of relying solely on consultant advised development recipes.

Event Photo Gallery

Empowering Communities:

Successful TOTs in Rawalpindi and Nowshera Promote Sustainable Living

In a bid to foster sustainable living practices, the month of December witnessed transformative Training of Trainers (TOTs) in both Rawalpindi and Nowshera cities under the PUCCAR Project. The trainings, led by the Executive Director, Ms. Almas, brought together enthusiastic women from these cities to undergo a comprehensive two-day training program.

The primary focus of the TOTs was to empower the selected women with the skills and knowledge required for effective Solid Waste Management, a crucial component of the PUCCAR Project. The participants, chosen for their active and passionate approach, were immersed in hands-on sessions on compost-making and underwent assessments to enhance their general knowledge of recycling practices.

Ms. Almas, as the lead trainer, guided the women through the intricacies of compost production and shared valuable insights on the broader aspects of recycling. The training sessions weren't just theoretical; the participants were actively engaged through presentations, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

The PUCCAR Project aims to address critical aspects of community development, with Solid Waste Management being a pivotal component. The objective is to equip individuals with the skills to manage waste effectively, contributing to a cleaner environment and improved community well-being.

As the training concluded, these newly-minted trainers are now poised to extend their knowledge to their own communities. Armed with the ability to teach others about compost-making and sustainable practices, these empowered women are set to make a significant impact on their communities. The ripple effect is expected to create a network of self-sufficient households, promoting food security and enhancing overall community resilience.

The success of the TOTs in Rawalpindi and Nowshera marks a significant step towards achieving the goals of the PUCCAR Project. The dedication and passion exhibited by the participating women highlight the potential for positive change and community development through education and empowerment. As these trainers step into their communities, they embody the spirit of progress and sustainability, fostering a brighter and more resilient future for all.

First Stakeholder Meeting

Shehersaaz's First Stakeholder Meeting took place at Hotel Margala on November 22nd, 2023. 

Experts and professionals working on Climate Change and Adaptation were invited to attend the meeting and share their insights as well.

The meeting began with Recitation of Holy Quran followed by Welcome remarks and brief Introduction of Shehersaaz presented by Executive Director, Ms. Almas Shakoor who shared purpose and agenda of the meeting.

Program Manager UN-Habitat Mr. Khalil Ahmed shared his remarks and the meeting formally began. 

A brief overview of the AF Project was presented by Ms. Shakoor where evolution, governance, components, dimensions, and dynamics of the project were highlighted. 

A short video was played related to the overall project and its three major components. 

Two panel discussions took place moderated by CR&N Coordinator Anahita Sajjad.

Panel 1 consisted of “Community Participation” of Stakeholders/beneficiaries where they discussed about the benefits of the three components of PUCCAAR sharing their firsthand experiences.

1- Rain Water Harvesting Units (RWHU)

2- Solid Waste Management (SWM)

3- Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

Panel Participants:

1- Ms. Mehreen Bibi (RWHU)

2- Ms. Ayesha Fayyaz (SWM)

3- Mr. Tufail (DRR)

Panel 2 had “Experts” who shared their expertise in Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable and Resilience based projects and Urban Development in context to Climate Change.

1- Dr. Mariam Saleh (Director Weather and Climate Services)

2- Ms. Azra Shahid (Rescue Safety Officer 1122)

3- Mr. Shoaib Haider (Country Director HOPE 87)

4- Dr. Mansoor Ali (UK) Theme Lead Waste Burning, Royal Academy of Engineering (Participated Online) 

Mr. Azeem Khoso Director Ministry of Climate Change concluded the event with his remarks followed by Souvenir Distribution, Group Photo and Lunch.

Shehersaaz was able to present its Project on Urban Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience successfully and will continue to keep the level of productivity to its maximum strength.

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World Cities Day 2023 - Discussion Panel

The World Cities Day “WCD” is an initiative by UN-Habitat which marks the end of Urban October Activities. Shehersaaz Celebrated “World Cities Day” with a Focus on "Financing a Sustainable Urban Future for All" A vibrant and thought-provoking event was hosted at the Earth Sciences Auditorium of Quaid-e-Azam University. The event brought together experts, artists, and individuals passionate about urban living to commemorate and celebrate the importance of cities and their role in shaping the cities future. The event was organized by Shehersaaz in collaboration with UN-Habitat Pakistan, Adaptation Fund and Quaid e Azam University, Islamabad. The panel discussion featured notable experts including, Mr Jawed Ali Khan, Country Program Manager UN-Habitat Pakistan, Mr Azhar Ul Islam, Vice President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Dr. Abbas Moosvi, Research Fellow PIDE, Dr. Beenish Kulsoom, Program Manager PUCCAR, Shehersaaz, Abdul Shakoor Sindhu, Urban Planner and Designer.

The discussion began with Opening remarks of Executive Director, Shehersaaz Ms. Almas Shakoor, she emphasized that time to act is now, to reform the way we are planning and managing our cities.

Anahita Sajjad from Shehersaaz read the UN Secretary General Mr. Antonio Guteress’s message for the WCD: “As we mark World Cities Day, let’s resolve to work together for urban areas that are not engines of growth, but beacons of sustainability, resilience and prosperity for all”

The highlight of the event was a compelling keynote address delivered by Mr. Jawed Ali Khan who emphasized and shared his insights on the critical issues and challenges faced by cities in the 21st century, emphasizing the need for sustainable and inclusive urban development. His words inspired the audience to reevaluate their perspective on city life and the transformative potential of urban environments.

During the Panel discussion Mr. Jawed said that the local government assets need to be made vibrant so that they can be turned from liabilities into assets, culture of free lunch should be abolished and citizens should be made to pay for the services. He said there should be institutions who could deliver, he mentioned that UN-Habitat has implemented a project on Low Carbon Urban Development in Karachi They have developed Green Building Codes in collaboration with NED University and Pakistan Engineering Council, he also mentioned that this initiative has been selected for Global Award to be given in upcoming COP28.

Mr. Azhar said Private sector has never been allowed to grow and prosper. He was of the opinion that we have no dearth of resources but we need to adopt a National Policy of right person for the right job, he also highlighted, No Nation can progress without investing in its Human Resources. Our policy makers should seriously consider why most of the Pakistanis are not satisfied and want to immigrate.

Mr. Abbas gave a historical overview of Urbanization and Industrialization in Pakistan, he told that process of Urbanization started in Pakistan with Green Revolution. He also said that many people blame Bhutto’s Nationalization Policy however, he highlighted that Pakistan achieved highest Industrial growth during the 70’s. While Offering some solutions for strengthening the financial health of local government he proposed that the process of devolution should be taken to its logical conclusion by strengthening Provincial finance commissions and establishing District Finance Commissions on the model of National Finance Commission.

Ms. Almas mentioned a developed and sustainable city is one which every citizen could relate to that is a City that serves the needs of women, children, youth, elderly, people with disability and trans genders.

Dr. Beenish Kulsum opined that local governments have never been taken seriously in Pakistan. They have always been kept resource less entities which always remain at the mercy of provincial governments.

Mr. Abdul Shakoor said that it is highly unlikely that Pakistan will be able to meet its agreed targets for SDG11 that deals with inclusive, safe and sustainable cities and communities. He shared that there can be no city planning and management in absence of reliable data. He suggested that Federal and Provincial Bureaus of Statistics should be made administratively and financially autonomous entities so that they could generate reliable data. He also proposed that local governments should be empowered to collect and utilize property tax and motor vehicle tax to meet their administrative and development budgets. 

Another highlight of the event was the Conception of ideal cities envisioned by young Artists who transformed their ideas into paintings.

Watch Event Videos from Facebook Live

Public Awareness Campaign on

International Disaster Risk Reduction Day 2023
at Government Associate College for Women

The International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDRR) is a global observance held every year on October 13th. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1989, with the aim of promoting a global culture of disaster reduction, including disaster prevention, mitigation, and preparedness. It provides an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts, progress, and innovative approaches made towards reducing disaster risks and building resilient communities worldwide.

This year’s theme for the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2023 revolved around "Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future"

Inequality and vulnerability to disasters are interconnected: disparities in accessing essential services like finance and insurance leave the most vulnerable exposed to disaster risks, and when disasters occur, they worsen existing inequalities and push the most vulnerable deeper into poverty. It underscores the urgent need to invest in disaster risk reduction strategies, enhance community engagement, and strengthen disaster resilience to protect lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure in the face of increasing climate-related disasters and other hazards.

Shehersaaz observed “International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction” (IDDR) at a local college in Dhok Mangtal, Rwp to promote a global culture of disaster risk reduction and resilience. This day helped raise awareness and understanding amongst students by informing them about risks they might face and ways to mitigate them, hence fostering a culture of preparedness and safety.

Shehersaaz collaborated with “Rescue Service 1122” and held a wonderful event showcasing several demonstrations related to First-Aid, Flood and earthquake preparedness. Live demonstrations illustrated effective responses for earthquakes, floods and other disaster reduction events, covering first aid, search and rescue methods and safe evacuation procedures.

Watch event videos from Facebook Live

Event Photo Gallery

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data-title="International Disaster Risk Reduction Day 2023 - Event by Shehersaaz at Government Associate College for Women, Dhok Mangtal Rawalpindi (1)">

PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGN ON

NATIONAL DISASTER RISK REDUCTION DAY 2023

Pakistan has a long history of experiencing natural disasters, with earthquakes being one of the most devastating. On October 8, 2005, Pakistan suffered a catastrophic earthquake, this seismic event had a magnitude of 7.6, causing massive destruction, loss of life, and displacement of communities. The earthquake's epicenter was near Muzaffarabad in Azad Kashmir, affecting several regions across Pakistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.

In commemoration of the devastating earthquake that struck Pakistan in October 2005, followed by Floods of 2022 that submerged 1/3 of the country effecting 33 million people, leading to massive destruction where properties and lives were compromised.

Shehersaaz observed “National Disaster Risk Reduction Day (NDRRD) on Monday, October 9th 2023 at Nowshera. The day served as a solemn occasion to remember the lives lost, the communities affected, and to renew the commitment to disaster resilience and preparedness.

The primary objective of observing NDRRD was to raise awareness about the importance of disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and community resilience in the face of natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and floods.

Shehersaaz collaborated with “Rescue 1122 “ several “Emergency Response Demonstrations” were presented, practical demonstrations showcasing appropriate responses during an earthquake/floods, including first aid, search and rescue techniques, and safe evacuation practices were also demonstrated.

The event helped Increase awareness and understanding of disaster risks, particularly earthquake and flood risks.

Empowered community with knowledge and skills for disaster preparedness and response.

Strengthened partnerships and collaboration among stakeholders for effective disaster risk reduction efforts.

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Watch event glimpses from Facebook Live

World Environment Day marks its 50th Anniversary this year (2023) and in the 5 decades the day has grown to be one of the largest global platforms for environmental outreach. This year Theme for World Environment Day was ‘Solutions to plastic pollution”. Plastic pollution is a growing and serious concern in Pakistan as it ranked sixth globally and third in Asia among plastic waste generators with the country producing 4 million tons of plastic waste annually. Karachi is identified as among the top 10 marine litter hotspots in the region, constituting an increasing risk to ecosystem health and biodiversity. This is rooted in unsustainable production and consumption patterns, poor plastic and solid waste management and lack of infrastructure, lack of adequate legal and policy frameworks and poor enforcement, and a lack of financial resources both at national and local governments.

Shehersaaz in collaboration with UN-Habitat, Ministry of Climate Change and NUST celebrated World Environment day 2023 to create awareness to effectively manage the plastic waste and create a healthier society. The winners of the Art Competition held by UN Habitat on International Zero Waste Day 2023 were also announced and awarded aiming to create awareness in children and promote sustainable consumption and production patterns and contribute to the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Dr. Muhammad Irfan. Principal & Dean. Professor. School of Civil & Environmental Engineering (SCEE) distributed the awards to the winners.

A Panel discussion was convened to dig out the challenges and to come up with the solutions to reduce and manage plastic pollution. The panelists included Mr. Jawed Ali Khan, HPM, UN Habitat; Dr. Imran Hashmi, Tenured Professor & Associate Dean, IESE, NUST; DR. Hira Amjad, Assistant Professor, IESE, NUST; Ms. Raina Saeed Khan, Chairperson, Islamabad Wildlife Management Board; Dr. Mansoor Ali; Team Lead, Waste Burning Program, Royal Academy of Engineering, UK; and Dr. Beenish Kulsoom, Lead Local Governance Program, Shehersaaz.

The panelists highlighted that that there is need for redesigning products & packaging, market assessment for reuse, refill & recyclability, increased awareness and advocacy, and effective implementation of legislations for beating plastic pollution in Pakistan. A strong need was felt for inclusion of producer responsibility in eliminating plastic pollution through defining and legislation under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Through collective action, we can achieve a world that is cleaner, greener, safer, healthier and happier, for us to live, work and play.

Ms. Almas Shakoor, Executive Director, Shehersaaz welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of awareness for an effective and efficient plastic waste management system which is critical for improving the productivity and sustainability of Pakistan centers.

Mr. Jawed Ali Khan in his opening remarks explained that UN Habitat is assisting cities through actions including waste data and monitoring, knowledge sharing, education and advocacy. As the cities grow, the problem of plastic and solid waste management is worsening. If the trend continues, 12 billion tonnes of plastic waste will be part of the environment by 2050. It is important that we work jointly towards reducing the plastic waste and promote its utilization for generating circular economy to reduce plastic pollution, value addition and increase resource efficiency.

Dr. Imran Hashmi and DR. Hira Amjad, deliberated that we must recognize that the restoration of nature is imperative to the survival of our planet and the human race. Academia is playing its role by providing the alternatives and students in the universities are doing research on different topics specifically related to Micro-Plastics. He highlighted that the research work done is not appropriately taken up by policy makers for integrating into the policies. This gap needs to be filled by working hand in hand.

Dr. Mansoor Ali described though National policies and legislations exist to address the plastic waste challenge but due to ineffective implementation, we are unable to beat the menace of plastic. There is a dire need to revise the legislations and their implementation strategies. Dr. Beenish Kulsoom said that it is important to identify the root causes for the ineffective local governance system for management of plastic waste. There exists overlapping of mandates of institutions working at the local level resulting in ineffective governance. The solution is to revisit the governance structure. Ms. Raina Saeed explained that awareness and advocacy plays a vital role in building awareness to the general public with respect to the impacts of plastic pollution in Pakistan and working for plastic free Margalla Hills Natural Park.

Citizens perspectives on challenges and solutions were also taken in which they showed concern on low awareness with respect to severity of the impact caused by plastic pollution on the wellbeing. Gardeners, Sanitary Workers and Forest Guards were payed tribute for their continuous efforts to clean the environment.