INTERNSHIP REPORT

MAHNOOR KHAN

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIORNMENTAL SCIENCES

LAHORE COLLEGE FOR WOMEN UNIVERSITY, LAHORE

2023
 INTERNSHIP REPORT

INTERNSHIP REPORT SUBMITTED TO LAHORE COLLEGE FOR

WOMEN UNIVERSITY IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL
SCIENCE

BY

MAHNOOR KHAN

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE LAHORE

COLLEGE FOR WOMEN UNIVERSITY, LAHORE 2023
Organization Name

SHEHER SAAZ (Pvt) Ltd.

Organizational Coordinator Name:

Ms. Tayyaba Akhtar

Designation:

Environmentalist

Duration of Internship: 8 weeks

Working hours per week: 20 hours

Table of Contents
List of Figures........................................................................................................................ i

List of Tables…………………………………………………………………………......... ii

List of Abbreviation……………………………………………………………………....... iii

Acknowledgement................................................................................................................. v

Abstract.................................................................................................................................. vi

Internship Report 1

Introduction to Sheher Saaz 3

Task 1: Presentation on Peshawar Waste Management 4

1.1 Baseline Studies of Peshawar 4

1.2 Authorities working in the sector of Waste Management in Peshawar 5
1.2.1 Role of City District Government of Peshawar (CDGP 5
1.2.2 Role of Xenel Baladarrie Invisor 5
1.2.2.1 Division of towns and union councils 5
1.2.2.2 Division on basis of income 6
1.2.2.3 Division on basis of Commercial Areas 7
1.3 Gap Analysis 9
1.4 Suggested implementation Plan 9

Task 2: Statistical Analysis of Disaster Management Survey 11

of Astore City
2.1 Any Solid Waste Collection System in your area 11
2.2 Collection of solid waste from area 12
2.3 Practice of sorting waste at home 12
2.4 Availability of public bins in the city 13
2.5 Waste disposal or collection a problem in the city 13
2.6 Adequate disposal sites in city 14
2.7 Solid Waste Generation per day at house 14
2.8 Condition of solid waste management in neighbourhood 15

Task 3: Writing a Blog on Transportation Evolution which leads to 16

Climate Change
3.1 How significant is Pakistan's transportation sector in contributing to the country's 16
greenhouse gas emissions?
3.2 Why Situation is getting worse? 17
3.3 Is Lahore's Transportation System Fueling Pollution? 18
3.4 What steps can make the city's transportation greener? 18

Task 4: Setting Goals for Master Planning of Charsadda 19

4.1 Sustainable Agriculture 19

4.2 Wildlife Conservation 23
4.3 Conservation of Aggregate Resources 25

Task 5: Research Articles on Contaminated sites of River Ravi 29

5.1 Title: An Unintended Challenge of Microplastic Pollution in the urban 29

water system of Lahore, Pakistan
5.1.1 Methodology 29
5.1.2 Results 31
5.1.3 Recommendations 31
5.2 Title: River Ravi Potentials, Pollution and Solutions 32
5.2.1 Methodolgy 32
5.2.2 Results 32
5.2.3 Solutions 33

Task 6: Report on Earth Quake in Turkey 2023 35

6.1 Introduction 35
6.2 Past Events 35
6.3 Causes of Turkey Earthquake 36
6.4 Current Scenario 38
6.5 Syrian refugees in Turkey 40
6.6 Local Response 40
6.7 International Response 40
6.8 Help by Organizations 41
6.9 Predictions 46

Task 7: Report on Waste Management System In Astore 47

7.1 Solid Waste Generation in Pakistan 47

7.2 Reasons for the Increase in Waste Generation in Pakistan 47
7.3 Brief Overview of Waste Generation In Gilgit Baltistan 48
7.4 Waste Management System In Astore 48
7.4.1 Role of Authorities working in sector of Waste Management 48
7.4.2 Waste Handling in Astore 48
7.4.3 Waste Collection System in Astore 50
7.4.4 Ongoing and Future Projects in Astore 50
7.4.5 Composition of Waste in Astore 50
7.4.6 Domestic Solid Waste 51
7.4.7 Commercial Waste 51
7.4.8 Special Waste 53
7.4.9 Construction and Demolition waste 53
7.4.10 Transportation in Astore 54
7.4.11 Final Disposal system in Astore 55
7.5 Suggested Implementation Plan 56

Task 8: Report on the causes of pollution in Swat River with 56

recommendations
8.1 General Information on River Swat 56
8.2 Causes of Pollution 56
8.3 Efforts Carried Out in Recent History 58
8.4 Recommendations 60
Task 9: Survey Data Entry in Excel Sheets 61

References 63
List of Figures
Figure 1.1: Street Side Open Dumping practice in Peshawar 4

Figure 2.1: Any Solid waste collection system in your area 11

Figure 2.2: Collection of solid waste from area 12

Figure 2.3: Practice of sorting waste at home 12

Figure 2.4: Availability of public bins in the city 13

Figure 2.5: Waste disposal or collection a problem in the city 13

Figure 2.6: Adequate disposal sites in city 14

Figure 2.7: Solid Waste Generation per day at house 14

Figure 2.8: Condition of solid waste management in neighbourhood 14

Figure 3.1: Contribution of transportation sector in greenhouse gas emissions 16

Figure 3.2: Vehicles make their way amid heavy smog conditions in Lahore, 17
Pakistan
Figure 3.3: Locality Wise Total GHG Emission from Different Consumption 12

Figure 4.1: Goals for Sustainable Agriculture 19

Figure 4.2: Climate Smart Traditional Agriculture Practices 22

Figure 4.3: Goals for Wildlife Conservation 23

Figure 4.4: Graph showing Cycle of Wildlife Management 25
Figure 4.5: Goals to conserve Aggregate Resources 28

Figure 5.1: Study area map showing Ravi river, drains, sullage carrier, link 30
canals, and sampling sites

Figure 6.1: Turkey Earthquake Poster by Sheher Saaz, 2023 34

Figure 6.2: Turkey Earthquake Destruction 35

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Figure 6.3: The map highlighted the past and current deadly Feb 6, 2023, quakes 36
Figure 6.4: Earthquake caused by strike slip Fault 37
Figure 6.5: Fault lines around Turkey and Syria 37
Figure 6.6: Map highlighted the deadly Feb 6, 2023 38
Figure 6.7: Tweet by Frank Hoogerbeets 46
Figure 7.1: Composition of Generated Waste in Gilgit Baltistan 48

Figure 7.2: Map showing dumping areas in Astore 54

Figure 7.3: Survey conducted by Sheher Saaz 54

Figure 8.1: Waste dumping practice along the river 57

Figure 9.1: Screenshot of Excel Sheets 62

List of Tables
Table 1.1: Municipal Waste Generation Data of Peshawar (2006-2009) 5

Table 1.2: Town ‘s Union Councils GPS Coordinates 6

Table 1.3: Low and Middle Class Income with respect to towns 8

Table 1.4: High and Commercial Areas with respect to towns 8

Table 4.1: Differences between Resources and Aggregate resources 26

Table 5.1: Concentration of Plastic Polymers 31

Table 5.2: Sediments and their Concentration 32

Table 7.1: Solid Waste Management System, All Cities at a Glance 49

Table 7.2: City Wise Commercial Waste (Kgs) 52

Table 7.3: District-wise Number of Vehicles, with Waste Lifting Capacity and 53
Condition

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List of Abbreviation

AAS Atomic absorption spectroscopy

ADA Adana Sakirpasa Airport

AFAD Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (Turkish: Afet ve Acil Durum
Yönetimi Başkanlığı)

ATIR Attenuated Total Internal Reflection

BUTSA Boston University Turkish Student Association 

CCTV China Central Television

CD City Development

CDGP City District Government of Peshawar

ECO Community Environmental Organization

EPS Environmental Protection Society

FTIR Fourier Transform Infrared

GBWMC Gilgit Baltistan Waste Management Company

GHGs Greenhouse Gases

GOP Government of Pakistan

GZT Gaziantep Oğuzeli International Airport

HTY Hatay Airport

HPDE High Density Polyethylene

ICEPAK International Consulting Engineers of Pakistan

ISWMS Integrated Solid Waste Management System

KADO Karakoram Area Development Organization

KEDV Kadin Emegini Degerlendirme Vakfi/ Economic Development Foundation

KIU Karakoram International University

KPK Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa

LPDE Low Density Polyethylene

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LUPZ Land Use Planning and Zoning

MCG Municipal Committee Gilgit

MD Municipal Department

MHPSS Mental health and psychosocial support

MoH Ministry of Health

MPs Microplastics

MR Marala Ravi

MSF Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders/

NDMA National Disaster Management Authority

NWFP North-West Frontier Province

OXFAM Oxford Committee for Famine Relief

RDF Refuse-Derived Fuel

RSPC Regional Support Program Center

SSGS Solar System Geometry Survey

TDS Total Dissolved Solvents

TRS True Representative Survey

UAE United Arab Emirates

UCs Union Council

UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNICEF United Nations Children's Fund

WASH Water, sanitation and hygiene

WHO World Health Organization

XBI Xenel Baladarrie Invisor

YES Young Environmental Society

ZADO Zulfiqar Abad Area Development Organization

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I thank Almighty Allah, the most beneficial and merciful, the mentor of all praises who blessed
me with courage, insight and strength to accomplish my task of internship work and report
writing.

I would like to thank the respected, distinguished and affectionate Prof. Dr. Arifa Tahir,
Chairperson Environmental Science Department for providing me with necessary facilities for
my internship report. I would like to thank my respected supervisor Dr. Zaira Ahmad who
has been an incredible source of knowledge and wisdom; who always remained positive,
supportive and patient and was always available for my incessant queries.

I would like to thank Mr. Khuram Farid , the Director of Shehersaaz, for giving me the
opportunity to do an internship within the organization. I express my deepest gratitude to my
internship supervisor Ms. Tayyaba Akhtar Project Manager for providing me vigilant help
and all the facilities needed in the intensive work and also for his sincere guidance and practical
suggestions during entire period of my internship report and remind a source of inspiration for
me.

I would also like to sincerely thank my wonderful family and friends for their consistent support
and encouragement, particularly my parents who are the main reason for what I am today. Last
but not least, I am thankful from the core of heart to my best friends for their love and support.

Mahnoor Khan

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 ABSTRACT

This internship was carried out in Sheher Saaz (Pvt.) Ltd., Lahore from 1st February, 2023 to
30th March, 2023. Sheher Saaz is situated on the Mall, Lahore, Pakistan. My internship
duration was two months.

Sheher Saaz Pvt. Ltd. is an international consultancy firm established in 1998 with one goal;
to provide people and organizations with high quality and expert advisory services. The
company is based in Lahore with branches in London, Islamabad, Karachi, and Sydney.
Throughout my time there, various projects were worked on, including a presentation on
Peshawar waste management, a report on the waste Management status of Astore based on
survey data. Additionally, writing goals for a master plan of Charsadda. Reporting on the
Turkey earthquake, and the writing of a blog about Evolution of Transportation leads to
climate change in Pakistan. Practical knowledge and skills in urban planning, environmental
assessment, and waste management were acquired during the internship. A deeper
understanding of the environmental challenges faced by Astore was gained through the
conducted report.

Overall, the internship at Sheher Saaz was a transformative experience, providing practical
insights into the field of interest. Gratitude is expressed for the guidance and support received
from the team, and confidence is held that the acquired skills and knowledge will serve as a
solid foundation for a future career in urban planning and environmental management.

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 INTERNSHIP REPORT

After the completion of course work, internship program provides an opportunity for students
to acquire experience in different areas and to learn more about their fields. An internship is a
well-known educational strategy classroom studies are integrated with learning to handle work
experiences in a field related to the students’ academic major and career goals. A successful
internship fosters an experiential learning process that not only promotes career preparation
but also provides opportunities for learners to develop skills necessary to become leaders in
their chosen professions. An internship of 3-credit hours is compulsory for the partial fulfilment
of BS Environmental Sciences Degree. We are required to be associated with any
Environmental Organization. Therefore, I joined SHEHERSAAZ PVT.LTD, Lahore.

I started internship in SHEHERSAAZ PVT.LTD from 1st February, 2023 and ends on 30th
March, 2023. It is situated in Dyal Singh Mansion Old Power House, Mozang Chungi, Lahore.
My internship duration was two months.

The main objective of joining Shehersaaz Pvt. Ltd. is to align my passion for sustainable urban
development with the company's vision and mission. As an urban planning and design firm,
Shehersaaz has a reputation for creating innovative solutions to address the challenges faced
by cities today. By being a part of this organization, my goal is to contribute my skills,
knowledge, and experience to make a positive impact on urban environments. I am eager to
work alongside a talented team of professionals who share a common vision of creating
inclusive, livable, and environmentally sustainable cities. Through my work at Shehersaaz, I
aim to contribute to urban planning and design projects that promote sustainable development,
enhance community well-being, and create a lasting positive impact on urban landscapes.

OBJECTIVES OF INTERNSHIP

Objectives of my internship were:

• Enhance knowledge of the role of waste authorities and their impact on waste
management practices in different cities.

• Collaborate with the supervisor and team members to achieve the objectives of master
planning of various cities.

• Acquire practical experience in data analysis, presentation preparation, report writing

and effective communication within a professional setting.

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• Contribute to the development of sustainable waste management strategies for a cleaner
and healthier Gilgit Baltistan.

VISION OF SHEHERSAAZ PVT.LTD

Sheher Saaz envisions a Pakistan having its cities and other human settlements as places where
humans, and natural and built environment exist and thrive in harmony. This means these
should be places that are:

 Resilient to natural and human made disasters and freer from safety risks, conflicts and
crimes.
 Physically functional and aesthetically appealing.
 Cohesive to natural environment and responsive to climate.
 Socially inclusive, culturally vibrant and tolerant to diversity.
 Economically efficient and equitable.
 Designed, planned, managed and governed with best practices.

MISSION OF SHEHERSAAZ PVT.LTD

Sheher Saaz’s mission is to become a specialized and dedicated civil society

organization with a spirit, knowledge, experience; and technical, financial and human
resources to strive for its vision and to effectively and meaningfully contribute to
making cities and other human settlements of Pakistan liveable, inclusive, humane,
compassionate, safe, resilient and sustainable by working in collaboration with citizens,
communities, private sector, government and other stakeholders. In short it will be a
‘Trust of Cities and Citizens.’

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INTRODUCTION OF SHEHERSAAZ PVT.LTD

The idea for the establishment of Sheher Saaz meaning Sheher (City) and Saaz (Maker) as a
specialist institution dedicated to undertaking research and development in human settlements
of Pakistan was conceived following the Second United Nations Conference on Human
Settlements (Habitat II) held in Istanbul, Turkey in June 1996. It is a leading company
dedicated to transforming urban spaces and creating sustainable environments. As an
organization, their mission is to design and develop innovative solutions that enhance the
quality of life in cities. They strive to create urban spaces that are aesthetically pleasing,
environmentally friendly, and economically viable.

At Sheher Saaz Pvt. Ltd, their core focus is on urban planning, landscape design, and
environmental conservation. We specialize in developing comprehensive master plans that
incorporate elements of green infrastructure, sustainable transportation, and efficient waste
management systems. Our team of experts, including urban planners, architects, and
environmentalists, work together to design and implement solutions that address the unique
needs and challenges of each project. The projects incorporate green spaces, tree planting
initiatives, and sustainable water management systems to minimize the environmental impact
of urban development.

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Task 1: Presentation on Peshawar Waste Management (Duration: 2 days,
Date: 1st, 2nd February)
The first task assigned was to gather available online data on Peshawar Waste Management
and prepare a PowerPoint presentation based on following points:

 Baseline data of Waste generation in Peshawar.

 Authorities working in the sector of Waste Management in Peshawar.
 Suggested implementation Plan

1.1 Baseline Studies of Peshawar

Only data from year 2006 to 2009 was available on internet sources as given below:

 According to the data obtained it was found that open dumping and burning of waste
was a usual practice in Peshawar (Figure 1).
 Based on the information gathered, it was found that approximately 60% of the
generated waste remained at collection points or in streets, emitting a host of pollutants
into the air and were contributing to air pollution.
 A table was found that provides information on waste generation from 2006 to 2009
(Table 1.1).

Figure 1.1: Street Side Open Dumping practice in Peshawar

Source: https://tribune.com.pk/story/670072/peshawar-green-clean-hopes

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 Table 1.1: Municipal Waste Generation Data of Peshawar (2006-2009)

Source: https://lgkp.gov.pk/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/- Councils-Detatails-Annex-A.pdf

1.2 Authorities working in the sector of Waste Management in Peshawar

The authorities that are working for waste management in Peshawar are:

City Development & Municipal Department (CD&MD) a public sector organization and
Xenel-Baladarrie-Invisor (XBI) a Public Private. They are in Partnership with the City District
Government Peshawar.

1.2.1 Role of City District Government of Peshawar (CDGP)

The City District Government of Peshawar (CDGP) has an elected council responsible for
overseeing the overall functioning of the CDGP. The council's primary role is to make
decisions on matters related to the development and management of the city.

1.2.2 Role of Xenel Baladarrie Invisor

In 2006, Xenel Baladarrie Invisor (waste management company) was contracted by the City
District Government of Peshawar (CDGP) to prepare a waste generation report for the entire
city. The organization completed the following tasks:

1.2.2.1 Division of Towns and Union Councils

They prepared a report that was based on division of union councils based to their income
levels. To make this decision, reliable and true data was needed, and the services of
International Consulting Engineers of Pakistan (ICEPAK) were hired by XBI to conduct a True
Representative Survey (TRS) about the waste quantity and quality of each town. The survey
was conducted to determine the waste generation rate with respect to the income level, for
which 17 union councils of Town-1, 6 UCs each from Town-2, 3 and 4 were selected (18 total)
(Table 1.2).

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 Table 1.2: Town ‘s Union Councils GPS Coordinates

Source: Government of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. "NWFP Introduction," 2010.

1.2.2.1 Division on basis of income

Basis of income following divisions were done:

 Low Class Waste Generation

o Less than 80 square meters including the slums
o The average house hold size ranges between 3 and 17.5. An average 10.25 persons per
house.

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 o 7-days continuous sampling. Average household size is 10.25. Average waste
generation at the rate of 0.311 kg/ cap/ day (Table 1.3).

 Middle Class Waste Generation

o The average household size: 7.75. Waste generation: 0.339kg/cap/day (Table 1.3).

 High Class Waste Generation

o Mainly, there is no as such distinction in family size of low or high income area as
Pushtuns are found of having big family system. But because of little fluctuation in
income, they were referred as Elite class.
o Average household size average range 6 -7 persons per house.
o The average household size 11.5. Waste generation: 0.298 kg/cap/day (Table 1.4).

1.2.2.2 Division on basis of Commercial Areas

• Commercial Areas Waste Generation
o Total of 35 commercial units especially grocery shops were surveyed for continuous 7
days.
o 17 were in town-1 and 6 each from town-2, 3,4 (Table 1.4).

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 Table 1.3: Low and Middle Class Income with respect to towns

Table 1.4: High and Commercial Areas with respect to towns

Source: https://www.adb.org/projects/documents/pak-51036-002-eia

However, they also proposed ISWMS (Integrated Solid Waste Management System) in 2006.
The system was designed to do grass root level practices to collect mixed solid waste, which is
then brought to specified garbage transfer stations in each town. The waste is then transported
to the centralized treatment facility (RDF/Compost Plant) located 17 km from the city centre
in the suburban area of Peshawar.

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1.3 Gap Analysis
Organization conducted a gap analysis that describes the factors responsible for the failure of
previous working strategies of City District Government of Peshawar (CDGP) were discussed,
which were given by Xenel Baladarrie Invisor and they are as:

 They are very few as compared to the population as 17000 people per bin.
 The distance of bin from household is more so people mostly placed their waste at the
roadside or through it to empty plot nearby which more commonly seen in Professor
colony, Board Bazar, Police colony, Town, etc.
 Due limited resources in terms of staff due to which most of the vehicles are not running
at full capacity.
 Low wages of staff specifically drivers due to which most of the drivers found
suspicious in stealing oil.

1.4 Suggested implementation Plan

Based on the data, the implementation steps were suggested:

o Public Awareness and Education

Raise public awareness about the importance of waste segregation and its environmental
benefits. Conduct educational campaigns, workshops, and community outreach programs to
inform people about the proper methods of waste segregation and the impact it can have on the
environment.

o Clear Segregation Guidelines

Provide clear and easily understandable guidelines on waste segregation. Make sure people
understand which types of waste should be separated, such as organic waste, recyclables
(plastics, paper, glass, metals), and hazardous waste. Use visual aids and multilingual
information to reach a wider audience.

o Separate Collection Bins

Install separate collection bins or containers for different types of waste in public places,
residential areas, and commercial establishments. Clearly label each bin to indicate the type of
waste it should contain. This makes it convenient for people to segregate their waste correctly.

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 o Promote Composting

Encourage composting of organic waste at the source, such as in households, schools, and
community gardens. Provide information and resources on how to set up composting systems,
including compost bins or composting pits. Composting can significantly reduce the amount
of organic waste going to landfills and contribute to the production of nutrient-rich compost
for gardening.

o Recycling Facilities and Programs

Establish recycling facilities and programs to promote the proper disposal and recycling of
recyclable materials. Collaborate with recycling companies or organizations to set up collection
centers or organize collection drives for items like plastics, paper, glass, and metals. Make
recycling accessible and convenient for the community.

o Hazardous Waste Disposal

Educate the public about the proper disposal methods for hazardous waste, such as batteries,
electronic waste, and household chemicals. Provide designated drop-off points or collection
services for hazardous waste to ensure it is handled and disposed of safely to prevent
environmental contamination.

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Task 2: Statistical Analysis of Disaster Management Survey of Astore City
(Gilgit Baltistan) (Duration: 2 days, Date: 3rd-4th February)
The team at Sheher Saaz conducted a comprehensive survey on waste management through
questionnaires in Astore City in Gilgit Baltistan. These filled questionnaires were given to me
for statistical analysis. As part of the survey analysis, I assisted them by creating graphs and
charts on excel to visually represent the collected data. Also, I was assigned to make a report
on the statistical analysis of Astore. In the report, I discussed the insights obtained from the bar
graphs and pie charts, presenting a detailed analysis of the results.

The information collected through the questionnaires is confidential and I am only allowed to
share information about few questions. Below are some of the questions and their statistical
analysis:
2.1 Any Solid Waste Collection System in your area

Given Options
a. Yes
b. No
c. Don’t know
d. No Opinion

Figure 2.1: Any Solid waste collection system in your area

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2.2 Collection of solid waste from area

Given Options
a. Yes
b. No
c. Don’t know
d. No Opinon

Figure 2.2: Collection of solid waste from area

2.3 Practice of sorting waste at home

Given Options
a. Yes
b. No

Figure 2.3: Practice of sorting waste at home

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2.4 Availability of public bins in the city

Given Options
a. Yes
b. No

Figure 2.4: Availability of public bins in the city

2.5 Waste disposal or collection a problem in the city

Given Options
Given
a. Yes Options
a. Disgusting/Smelly
b. No
b. Inadequate Size
c. In good condition

Figure 2.5: Waste disposal or collection a problem in the city

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2.6 Mention the adequate disposal site in city

This was an open ended question in which people could write according to their perspective.
The adequate places for dumping for which three places were common in all responses as:

Figure 2.6: Adequate disposal sites in city

2.7 Solid Waste Generation per day at house

Figure 2.7: Solid Waste Generation per day at house

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2.8 Condition of solid waste management in neighbourhood

Given Options
a. Adequate
b. Average
c. Poor
d. Don’t know

Figure 2.8: Condition of solid waste management in neighbourhood

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Task 3: Writing a Blog on Transportation Evolution that leads to Climate
Change (Duration: 5 days, Date: 9th-11th,16th-17th February)
The Second task was to gather available online data and write a Blog on “Transportation
evolution that leads to climate change” based on the questions and answers as follows:

3.1 How significant is Pakistan's transportation sector in contributing to the

country's greenhouse gas emissions?

The number of registered vehicles in Pakistan has increased by 203% over the last two
decades. The transportation sector accounted for 47% of the country's energy-related CO2
emissions in 2022. Also in 2018, the transportation sector accounted for 16% of the
country's total greenhouse gas emissions, making it the second-largest contributor after the
energy sector (Figure 3.1).

Figure 3.1: Contribution of transportation sector in greenhouse gas emissions

Source:https://www.climatelinks.org/sites/default/files/asset/document/GHG%20Emissions%
20Fact%20Sheet%20Pakistan_6-3-2016_edited_rev%2008-18-2016.pdf

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3.2 Why Situation is getting worse?

Mainly because the share of public transport is decreasing, while the share of personal
vehicles is increasing. The country lacks efficient public transport infrastructure and
incentives for, low-carbon transportation (Figure 3.2).

Figure 3.2: Vehicles make their way amid heavy smog conditions in Lahore, Pakistan
Source: Source:
https://www.dawn.com/news/1655402 https://foreignpolicy.com/2021/11/29/pak
istan-lahore-pollution-fossil-fuels-
climate/
3.3 Is Lahore's Transportation System Fueling Pollution?

According to the facts obtained from Internet Lahore is highly polluted. WHO reported
Lahore transport causes 20000 plus deaths per year.Transportation causes 43% of air
pollution in Lahore.

 Research Study on areas of Lahore

According to a research study done by WHO, which was mentioned in blog as a reference,
the focus was on the transportation emissions of three areas (Walled City, Model Town,
Awan town). The results showed that Walled City had low emission of greenhouse gases
(GHG), while Model Town had high emission. Awan Town had a medium emission of
GHG per month (Figure 3.3).

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 Figure 3.3: Locality Wise Total GHG Emission from Different Consumption

Source:https://www.climatelinks.org/sites/default/files/asset/document/GHGEmissions%20F
act%20Sheet0Pakistan_rev%2008-18-2021.pdf

3.4 What steps can make the city's transportation greener?

Based on the data, the implementation steps were suggested, that are as:

o Implement policies and incentives to discourage personal car usage.

o Create safe and convenient bicycle and pedestrian lanes to promote active
transportation and reduce car usage.
o Implement policies that discourage the use of personal cars, such as congestion
pricing, vehicle registration fees, and parking restrictions.
o Provide education and raise awareness about the benefits of green transportation
options to encourage people to make environmentally sustainable choices.

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Task 4: Setting Goals for Master Planning of Charsadda (Duration 2 days,
Date: 18th, 23rd February)
The Third task was to assist them in master plan of Charsadda (Gilgit Baltistan). Different
goals and their points were elaborated with brief definitions to provide a clear understanding
of their purpose. As per instructions these points were displayed by smart art. These are as:

4.1 Sustainable Agriculture

The points of goals for Sustainable Agriculture were represented through smart art (Figure 4.1).

Minimize Soil
Disturbance

Lowered Price Maximize Soil

tree plantation Diversity

Goals for
Sustainable
Agriculture

Creating job Keep the soil

opportunities covered

Promote sustainable and

environmentally friendly
agricultural practices

Figure 4.1: Goals for Sustainable Agriculture

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 Integrate Livestock

Integrating livestock refers to the practice of incorporating animals, such as cattle, sheep, or
poultry, into agricultural systems in a way that optimizes their interactions with crops and the
surrounding ecosystem. This approach aims to enhance the overall productivity, sustainability,
and ecological balance of the agricultural system. Integrating livestock can involve practices
such as rotational grazing, where animals are moved across different pastures, allowing for
better nutrient distribution, soil fertility improvement, and pest control, among other benefits.

 Minimize Soil Disturbance

Minimizing soil disturbance refers to adopting agricultural practices that minimize or reduce
the physical disruption of the soil structure. This involves techniques that avoid excessive
tilling, plowing, or digging, which can negatively impact the soil's composition, organic matter
content, and beneficial microbial communities. By minimizing soil disturbance, farmers can
help preserve soil structure, prevent erosion, maintain soil fertility, and promote overall soil
health and productivity.

 Maximize Soil Diversity

Maximizing soil diversity involves promoting and preserving a wide range of beneficial
microorganisms, fungi, bacteria, and other soil organisms within agricultural ecosystems. It
aims to create a balanced and diverse soil ecosystem that supports healthy plant growth,
nutrient cycling, and disease suppression. Increasing soil diversity can be achieved through
practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and the use of organic amendments, which
provide a favorable habitat for diverse soil organisms and enhance the overall resilience and
sustainability of the soil.

 Keep the soil covered

Keeping the soil covered refers to the practice of ensuring that the soil surface remains
protected and shielded from erosive forces and direct exposure to the elements. This is typically
achieved by maintaining a layer of organic matter, such as crop residues or cover crops, on the
soil surface. By keeping the soil covered, farmers can prevent soil erosion, improve water
infiltration, regulate soil temperature, reduce weed growth, and promote the accumulation of
organic matter, which contributes to soil fertility and overall ecosystem health.

20
 Climate Smart Traditional Agriculture Practices

Promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices involves adopting

methods and techniques that minimize negative environmental impacts, conserve natural
resources, and prioritize long-term ecological sustainability. This can include practices such as
organic farming, agroforestry, precision agriculture, water conservation, integrated pest
management, and the reduced use of synthetic inputs like fertilizers and pesticides. By
promoting these practices, agricultural systems can contribute to environmental stewardship,
biodiversity conservation, and the protection of ecosystems and their services (Figure 4.2).

 Creating job opportunities

Creating job opportunities in the agricultural sector refers to the generation of employment and
income-generating activities related to farming, agribusiness, and the broader agricultural value
chain. This can involve providing training, infrastructure development, and support to farmers
and rural communities, which can lead to increased economic opportunities, poverty reduction,
and improved livelihoods. Job opportunities in agriculture encompass various roles, such as
farming, processing, marketing, research, extension services, and entrepreneurship.

 Lowered Price Tree plantation

Lowered price tree plantation refers to the practice of establishing tree plantations at a reduced
cost. This can involve adopting cost-effective techniques for seedling production, site
preparation, tree planting, and maintenance. Lowering the price of tree plantation initiatives
can make afforestation and reforestation efforts more accessible and financially viable. Tree
plantations offer numerous environmental benefits, such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity
conservation, soil erosion control, and provision of timber and non-timber forest products.

21
 Figure 4.2: Climate Smart Traditional Agriculture Practices

Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40974-017-0074-7

22
4.2 Wildlife Conservation

The points of goals for Wildlife conservation were represented through smart art (Figure 4.3).

Minimize Habitat
Destruction

Any kind of illegal

Enforcement of
hunting for animals
Wildlife Protection
or birds should be
Laws. Goals for forbidden
Wildlife
Conservation

Establishment of
Promote Wildlife
additional green
Friendly Urban
spaces and
Planning and
protected places to
Management
protect the wildlife

Figure 4.3: Goals for Wildlife Conservation

 Minimize Habitat Destruction

Minimizing habitat destruction refers to the effort to reduce or mitigate the loss, degradation,
or fragmentation of natural habitats caused by human activities. It involves adopting practices
that minimize the conversion of natural ecosystems into agricultural land, urban development,
or other forms of human land use. Minimizing habitat destruction is crucial for the preservation
of biodiversity, as habitats provide essential resources and shelter for a wide range of plant and
animal species. By minimizing habitat destruction, we can maintain the ecological balance,
protect endangered species, and preserve the overall health and functionality of ecosystems.

23
 Any kind of illegal hunting for animals or birds should be forbidden

The statement emphasizes the prohibition of all forms of illegal hunting, poaching, or capturing
of animals or birds. Illegal hunting involves the unlawful killing or capturing of wildlife, often
for commercial purposes, without proper permits or compliance with wildlife protection
regulations. It poses a significant threat to wildlife populations, disrupts ecological balance,
and can lead to the extinction of vulnerable species. By forbidding illegal hunting, governments
and conservation organizations aim to protect wildlife, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the
sustainable use and enjoyment of natural resources.

 Promote Wildlife Friendly Urban Planning and Management

Promoting wildlife-friendly urban planning and management involves incorporating strategies

and practices that consider the needs of wildlife and their habitats within urban environments.
It aims to create urban spaces that are more compatible with biodiversity conservation and
provide suitable habitats for wildlife. Wildlife-friendly urban planning and management can
include the preservation of green spaces, the creation of wildlife corridors, the use of native
vegetation in urban landscaping, and the implementation of measures to reduce human-wildlife
conflicts. By promoting wildlife-friendly urban planning and management, cities can enhance
biodiversity, improve residents' quality of life, and foster a harmonious coexistence between
humans and wildlife (Figure 4.4).

 Establishment of additional green spaces and protected places to protect the wildlife

The establishment of additional green spaces and protected areas refers to the creation of
designated areas that are set aside and managed for the conservation and protection of wildlife
and their habitats. These areas can include national parks, wildlife reserves, nature reserves,
and other protected areas. By establishing additional green spaces and protected places,
governments and conservation organizations aim to safeguard critical habitats, preserve
biodiversity, and provide safe havens for wildlife populations to thrive. These areas also offer
opportunities for research, education, and eco-tourism, contributing to local economies and
raising public awareness about wildlife conservation.

 Enforcement of Wildlife Protection Laws

Enforcement of wildlife protection laws refers to the implementation and application of legal
measures and regulations that are designed to safeguard and conserve wildlife. Wildlife
24
protection laws vary across countries but commonly address issues such as hunting regulations,
trade in endangered species, habitat conservation, and penalties for illegal activities. Effective
enforcement of these laws involves monitoring and surveillance, investigation of wildlife
crimes, prosecution of offenders, and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and
conservation organizations. By enforcing wildlife protection laws, authorities aim to deter
illegal activities, protect vulnerable species, and ensure the sustainable management of wildlife
resources.

Figure 4.4: Graph showing Cycle of Wildlife Management

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wildlife_management

4.2 Conservation of Aggregate Resources

Charsadda has several types of industrial mineral deposits including Dolomite, Chromite and
Limestone. As per instructions the difference was also written in form of table between
resources and aggregate resources (Table 4.1). Along with the points of goals for Aggregate
Resources, smart art was also featured: (Figure 4.5).

25
 Table 4.1: Differences between Resources and Aggregate resources

Resources Aggregate Resources

o Refers to various types of valuable o Specifically pertains to a subset of
materials or assets that exist in nature resources that are composed of
and can be utilized by humans granular materials, such as sand,
gravel, or crushed stone.
o Can include natural resources like o Primarily consists of non-metallic
minerals, fossil fuels, timber, water, materials used in construction,
and renewable energy sources. infrastructure development, and
industrial applications.
o Can be renewable or non-renewable, o Generally considered non-renewable,
depending on the specific resource. as the extraction of aggregates
involves depleting finite deposits.
o Examples include minerals like iron o Examples include sand, gravel,
ore, copper, gold, coal, and natural crushed stone, limestone, and
gas. recycled concrete.
o Have various uses in different o Mainly used in construction projects,
industries, such as manufacturing, road building, concrete production,
energy production, agriculture, and landscaping, and drainage systems.
transportation.
o Management and sustainable use of o Responsible extraction and
resources are crucial to ensure long- management practices are necessary
term availability and minimize to conserve aggregate resources,
environmental impacts. prevent depletion, and mitigate
environmental consequences.

26
 Sustainable
Extraction and ban
on legal extraction

Establishing a few Goals to

Achieving economic
protected zones to conserve
viability by Reuse
preserve aggregate Aggregate
and Recycling
resources. Resources

Enforcement of
Regulations.

Figure 4.5: Goals to conserve Aggregate Resources

 Sustainable Extraction and ban on legal extraction

Sustainable extraction refers to the practice of extracting natural resources, such as minerals,
timber, or fossil fuels, in a manner that ensures their long-term availability while minimizing
negative environmental and social impacts. It involves adopting responsible extraction
methods that consider factors such as resource replenishment, biodiversity conservation,
ecosystem integrity, and community well-being. Additionally, a ban on legal extraction implies
prohibiting the extraction of certain resources due to their environmental significance, scarcity,
or potential for irreversible damage. These measures aim to promote sustainable resource
management, prevent overexploitation, and protect ecosystems and local communities that
depend on these resources.

27
 Achieving economic viability by Reuse and Recycling

Achieving economic viability through reuse and recycling involves implementing strategies
and practices that promote the efficient use of resources, minimize waste generation, and
maximize the recovery and reuse of materials. It emphasizes the importance of transitioning
from a linear economy, where resources are extracted, used, and disposed of, to a circular
economy, where materials are continuously reused and recycled. By prioritizing reuse and
recycling, businesses and industries can reduce their environmental footprint, conserve
resources, reduce waste disposal costs, and create economic opportunities through the
development of recycling industries and value chains.

 Enforcement of Regulations

Enforcement of regulations refers to the implementation and monitoring of laws, rules, and
standards aimed at ensuring compliance with environmental, social, and safety regulations. It
involves monitoring activities, conducting inspections, and taking enforcement actions to
address violations or non-compliance. Effective enforcement of regulations is essential for
maintaining environmental sustainability, protecting public health and safety, and promoting
responsible practices in various sectors, such as industry, agriculture, and natural resource
extraction. It helps deter illegal or harmful activities, holds violators accountable, and
encourages the adoption of sustainable practices.

 Establishing a few protected zones to preserve aggregate resources

Establishing protected zones to preserve aggregate resources involves designating specific

areas where the extraction of aggregates, such as sand, gravel, or stone, is restricted or
prohibited. These protected zones aim to safeguard important aggregate resources from
overexploitation, depletion, or degradation. By establishing these zones, authorities can ensure
the long-term availability of aggregates for construction, infrastructure development, and other
purposes, while also preserving the ecological integrity and minimizing environmental impacts
associated with extraction activities. The establishment of protected zones for aggregate
resources contributes to sustainable resource management, land use planning, and the
protection of ecosystems and natural heritage.

28
Task 5: Research Articles on Contaminated sites of River Ravi (Duration: 4
days, Date: 24th-25th February, 2nd-3rd March)
The Fourth task required to search research articles about the contaminated sites at River Ravi.
They asked to write atleast two research articles in a concise manner, based on the assigned
points. These points include Methodology, Results, and Recommendations as authors
mentioned in their research.

5.1 Title: An Unintended Challenge of Microplastic Pollution in the urban

water system of Lahore, Pakistan

Authors: Muhammad Irfan, Abdul Qadir, Mehvish Mumtaz, Sajid Rashid Ahmed

5.1.1 Methodology
o Number of Samples and Locations

The surface sediments (n=19) were collected from comparatively flat areas along the river and
water channels. By different drains from Lahore city and link canals from the Chenab River
and this part of the river was assumed to be the most polluted in terms of plastic pollution. The
selected locations include drains 6 samples from the following locations:

Shalimar Escape Channel, Upper Chota Ravi Drain, Shahdra Drain, Lower Chota Ravi Drain,
Cantonment Drain, Hudiara Drain, 2 samples from link canals Upper Chenab, Qadirabad-
Balloki, 1 sample from Sullage carrier and mainstream of Ravi River, 10 samples from the
upstream and downstream of the selected drains, sullage carrier and link canals (Figure 5.1).

29
Figure 5.1: Study area map showing Ravi river, drains, sullage carrier, link canals, and
sampling sites

Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11356-020-08114-7/figures/1

Field insitu methodology was used in which a stainless-steel quadrate (30 × 30 cm) was placed
between the intertidal zone and the upper layer of sediments about 1 cm of soil was removed
and collected in the clean glass bottle using a stainless-steel spatula, whereas the surface water
samples were collected in the vicinity of the sediment sampling points and pre-treated on site.
A 100 L of surface water was collected from each nearshore sampling point and filtered through
a custom-made filtration assembly. For the collection of samples (5 mm), the assembly was
inverted and the material on 150-μm mesh was carefully back washed into 500-ml glass

30
sampling bottles using distilled water. The glass bottles were labelled, covered with aluminium
foil, tightly closed with plastic lids due to interlinked nearby anthropogenic sources. FTIR
spectrometer was used for the identification of plastic polymers. Representative MPs (n=50)
were collected from the 300-μm sieve and scanned through the ATR sensor.

5.1.2 Results

Based on the results the representative fraction of particles, three different plastic polymers i.e.,
PE, PP, and PS, were detected in the study. Concentrated NaCl solution (d= 1.2 g/cm3) was a
floatation media; thus, high-density polymers (e.g.,PVC, PETE) were not detected HDPE
(d=0.93–0.97 g/cm3) and LDPE (d=0.91–0.93 g/cm3). Mainly the expanded polystyrene
(d=0.96–1.04 g/cm3) (Table 5.1).

Table 5.1: Concentration of Plastic Polymers

Plastic Polymers Name of Polymer Density g/cm3

1. High density 0.93-0.97
polyethylene(HDPE)

2. Polystyrene 0.96-1.07
3. Low Density 0.91-0.93
polyethylene(LPDE)

Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11356-020-08114-7

5.1.3 Recommendations

o Microplastics (MPs) pollution is predominant in freshwater bodies. The growing use of

plastic products in Ravi River, is required to quantify and compare the MPs pollution
level in different area.
o Detailed investigations are recommended to fully highlight the MP pollution from
Pakistan. The efforts must also be made to aware the public with the impacts of these
anthropogenic polymers on the human and ecosystem health to limit the uses.

31
5.2 Title: River Ravi Potentials, Pollution and Solutions

Authors: Masil Khan, Hammad Naqi Khan, Hania Aslam

5.2.1 Methodolgy
o Number of Samples and Locations

5-6 samples took from these locations. Substantial deterioration of river water and bed
sediments was done by Mehmood Booti, Shad bagh, Farrukhabad Munshi Hospital, Taj
company, Bukkar Mandi and Hadiara drains. The worst affected drainage was the Hudiara
drain, a tributary of the Ravi River. After sample collection, lab work was done by using atomic
absorption spectroscopy (AAS).

5.2.2 Results

The metal concentrations in the sediments ranged from 0.99 to 3.17 for Cd.4.60 to 57.40 for
Cr.2.22 to 18.53 for Co and 3.38 to 159.75micro gram for Cu on dry matter basis. The load
from waste water of district Lahore is 728.75 tons per day (Table 5.2). About 1810 cusecs
municipals sewage plastic and toxic industrial effluents of plastic are being thrown into river
by ten sewage drains and pumping stations.

Table 5.2: Sediments and their Concentration

No. of Sediments Name of Sediment Concentration in micro

grams
1. Cadmium(Cd) 0.99-3.17
2. Chromium(Cr) 4.60-57.40
3. Cobalt 2.22-18.53
4. Copper 3.38-159.75

Source:https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339704099_An_unintended_challenge_of_
microplastic_pollution_in_the_urban_surface_water_system_of_Lahore_Pakistan

32
5.2.3 Solutions

o To increase the water availability about 2000 cusecs of fresh water from Marala Ravi
(MR) LINK canal could be released into the river without impacting the water level at
Baloki head works. This will maintain dissolved oxygen level of 4 to 5mg/l which is
required for the aquaculture survival.
o A lake/reservoir can be constructed within the course of the river from Siphon to Thokar
Niaz Baig which will have many positive outcomes, flood control, recharging of ground
water, development of recreational sites, aquaculture propagation and land reclamation.

33
Task 6: Report on Earth Quake in Turkey 2023 (Duration: 2 days, Date: 4th,
9th March)
The first task assigned was to prepare a report on Turkey's Earthquake and the data was
collected from online sources. The front page was also designed by me using Canva (Figure
6.1).

Figure 6.1: Turkey Earthquake Poster by Sheher Saaz, 2023

34
The points over which the report was written are:

6.1 Introduction

The report highlighted some of the key macroeconomic implications of the massive earthquake
of magnitude 7.8 that hit the southeastern Turkey and parts of Syria in the early hours of the
morning of 6 February and attempted to provide some prospective lines and reconstruction
scenarios based on currently available official information (Figure 6.2).

Figure 6.2: Turkey Earthquake Destruction

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-64615349

6.2 Past Events

According to seismologists the probability of large earthquakes in the regions of Turkey remains
quite high due to levels of stress between the tectonic plates. The North Anatolian fault has prod-
-uced seven large earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 7.0 on the Richter scale in the period
from 1939 to 1999 (Figure 6.3).

35
 Figure 6.3: The map highlighted the past and current deadly Feb 6, 2023, quakes
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_earthquakes_in_Turkey

6.3 Causes of Turkey Earthquake

The earthquake in turkey was so deadly so the reason is the fact that we know about the Earth's
crust is made up of separate bits, called plates, that nestle alongside each other.
These plates often try to move but are prevented by the friction of rubbing up against an
adjoining one. But sometimes the pressure builds until one plate suddenly jerks across, causing
the surface to slide (Figure 6.4).
Friction from the plates has been responsible for very damaging earthquakes in the past. In this
case it was the Arabian plate moving northwards and grinding against the Anatolian plate
(Figure 6.5).

36
 Figure 6.4: Earthquake caused by strike slip Fault
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-64540695

Figure 6.5: Fault lines around Turkey and Syria

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-64540696

37
6.4 Current Scenario

On 6 February 2023, two earthquakes and hundreds of aftershocks occurred in the Gaziantep, Ekinozu and
Kahramanmaras provinces of south eastern Turkey. This impacted both southern Turkey and northern
Syria, including the Assad-controlled City of Aleppo and the opposition-held region around Idlib. Hatay
is one of the most severely affected provinces in Turkey according to the latest updates, with multiple
major buildings collapsed including Antakya and İskenderun public hospitals, AFAD premises
(Directorate of Disaster and Emergency Management Agency) and Gendarmerie Headquarters. Syrian
refugees in Turkey. The map highlighted the deadly Feb 6, 2023, earthquake (Figure 6.6).

Figure 6.6: Map highlighted the deadly Feb 6, 2023

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/2/8/infographic-big-were-the-earthquakes-in-turkey-
syria

38
 o Casualties

The number of people killed stands at over 36,000 though this figure is likely to rise further. According to
Turkey’s Government nearly 32,000 people have been killed and 80,000 injured. After some days the
disaster and emergency management presidency s’ reports showed the actual count of affected, injured
and dead people. According to the report the affected population is 13.5M in which 17,134 are dead and
70, 347 people are injured due to this incident.

o Homelessness

An estimated 300,000 people across the region are left homeless.

o Infrastructure damage

The UN estimated that 120 schools have been destroyed, and 57 hospitals partially damaged
or forced to suspend their services. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports 15 hospitals
in Turkey suffered heavy or partial damage. Deaths in earthquakes are often caused by falling
bricks and masonry. According to the US Geological Survey, many people in Turkey who were
affected by the earthquake live in structures that are extremely likely to be damaged by shaking,
with unreinforced brick masonry and low-rise concrete frames.

o Humanitarian need

The WHO estimated 26 million are exposed to the effect of the earthquake.

o Value of financial damage in Turkey

Damage has been estimated at between US$50 billion and US$84 billion. The ten affected
Turkish regions represent 15% of the country’s population and 10% of its Gross National
Product. Early trade and the country's stocks tumbled around 5%, although both pared losses
later with the currency ending the day flat and equity indexes closing 1.3%-2.2% lower.

o International Flights

Travel to the earthquake zones is difficult and unadvisable. Three Turkish airports have closed.
Adana Sakirpasa Airport (ADA) and Hatay Airport (HTY) have shut after runway damage.
Gaziantep Oğuzeli International Airport (GZT) has closed to all civilian flights, but continues

39
to service rescue flights. Search personnel from more than 65 nations are in Turkey to aid
rescue and relief efforts.

o Health Hazards

The Ministry of Health (MoH) warned against using city water as drinking water. So far,
chlorine measurements have been made at 1,485 points, and chlorination has been carried out
in places with insufficient chlorine content. In the affected region, water samples from 415
different points were analyzed and 49 of them were found to be microbiologically non-
compliant and necessary actions were initiated

6.5 Syrian refugees in Turkey

Turkey hosts the largest number of Syrian refugees displaced abroad due to the county’s civil war: Around
3.7 million (69%). In some of the affected provinces, 50% of the population are refugees.

6.6 Local Response

The Turkish government was leading the response through coordination by the Disaster and Emergency
Management Authority (AFAD). Although Turkey has a developed response and emergency system, that
had strained by the scale of the earthquakes. The Government has declared a three-month state of
emergency in the 10 affected provinces to aid relief efforts. A state of rights. It was due to expire shortly
before parliamentary and presidential elections, which must be held by June 2023. emergency allowed the
president and cabinet to bypass parliament to enact laws or to limit certain. Turkey’s Government
announced US$5.3 billion in financial support for the affected regions, the deployment of 53,000 search
and rescue personnel, and tents and humanitarian aid to the region. Turkey’s Government expected to lead
the disaster response in those areas of northern Syria.

40
6.7 International Responses

Based on the data on internet sources the following states helped Turkey:

o USAID (United States Agency for International Development Government

agency)

Disaster assistance response team leader, Stephen Allen, two U.S. Agency for International
Development teams each comprised of about 80 people plus search-and-rescue dogs, arrived
in Turkey and head to the south eastern province of Adiyaman to focus on search and rescue.

o China

State broadcaster CCTV (China Central Television) reported that Chinese earthquake rescue
team sent by China arrived in Turkey's Adana. The team of 82 members and four search dogs,
brought 20 tonnes of supplies and equipment. Rescue teams from several provinces were also
on the way.

o India

Two teams from India's National Disaster Response Force of 100 personnel with dogs and
equipment were ready to be flown in. Medical teams were being readied and relief material
was being sent in coordination with Turkish authorities. Japan has sent 73 rescue personnel to
Turkey with equipment such as life detectors, drills, portable generators, medical kits and food.

o Great Britian

The government of Britain said that 76 British search and rescue specialists with four search
dogs and rescue equipment had been sent to Turkey and a British emergency medical team
would assess the situation.

o UAE (United Arab Emirates)

The UAE said it would set up a field hospital in Turkey and dispatch search and rescue teams
to Turkey and Syria. Saudi Arabia ordered an air bridge to provide aid and organised a
campaign through its "Sahem" platform to help in Turkey and Syria.

41
 o Iraq

Iraq sent civil defence teams to Turkey and Syria with emergency aid and relief supplies.
Qatar's state news agency reported that their government said it was operating relief flights to
Turkey to transport search and rescue teams along with vehicles, a field hospital, tents and
other supplies.

o Pakistan

The IL-78 aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force transported some 16.5 tons of relief goods, winter
tents, blankets and dried food, to Adana to help the people of Turkey. Pakistan was among the
first countries to send medical squads, search and rescue teams, and relief materials via military
aircraft and passenger flights to assist Turkey’s response.

6.8 Help by Organizations

 WHO (World Health Organization)

WHO has been urging all parties – government and civil society alike – to work together to
ensure cross-border delivery of humanitarian aid, between Turkey and Syria and within Syria
itself. The needs are huge, increasing by the hour. Some 26 million people across both countries
need humanitarian assistance. WHO is working with many partners. It is supporting the
massive humanitarian response to save lives, treat the injured, and crucially, help get the health
system – particularly primary health care – back up and running, however daunting that seems
at the present moment.

Over the past week it had:

1. Dispatched 3 charter flights packed with emergency kits and medical supplies destined
for both Syria and Turkey – enough to treat 400, 000 people as well as conduct 120, 000
urgent surgeries – and more supplies are on the way.

2. Deployed technical surge teams to the disaster zone to conduct urgent public health
needs assessments and support our existing field offices in the area.

3. Initiated the deployment of emergency medical teams.

42
 4. Released 16 million dollars from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies to help people
in need.

The World Health Organization (WHO) launched a $43 million appeal to support the
earthquake response in Syria and Turkey. That money would be used to:

1. Ensure access to the most vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations;

2. Provide trauma care and post-trauma rehabilitation;

3. Provide essential medicines and emergency kits to fill urgent health-care gaps;

4. Deliver vital mental and psychosocial support to the affected populations; and

5. Ensure continuity of routine health services, especially for women, children, the elderly
and those with non-communicable diseases.

It initiated the largest deployment of emergency medical teams in the WHO European Region
in its 75-year history. Twenty-two emergency medical teams have arrived in Turkey. These
specialized teams from 19 countries will integrate into Turkey’s ongoing health response,
providing critical emergency care.

 United Nations:

United Nations launched a $1 billion humanitarian appeal for the people of Turkey suffering
from the most devastating earthquakes to hit the country in a century. 

"The funding – which covers a three-month period will assist 5.2 million people and allow aid
organizations to rapidly scale up vital support for Government-led relief efforts in a number of
areas including food security, protection, education, water and shelter" said the statement by
the Secretary-General – on launch of humanitarian appeal for Turkey.

 UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund)

UNICEF is on the ground in Turkey and Syria helping children and families in the aftermath
of two devastating earthquakes

43
UNICEF is continuously supporting relief operations in the region with humanitarian
assistance. It has already channeled desperately needed supplies, and is ensuring evacuation to
safe spaces for children living in the affected areas. 

 UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)

UNESCO has offered its support to the victims of the devastating earthquake that rocked
Turkey and Syria as concern grows for a number of historically important World Heritage sites
in the region. The organization has mobilized its experts, in conjunction with heritage partners
to establish a precise inventory of the damage, if there is any, and to safeguard the sites with
the cooperation of national authorities. UNESCO also says there is a priority at this stage to
focus on rescue and relief.

 Humanity and Inclusion

Humanity & Inclusion teams in the region are working tirelessly to launch emergency actions
in response to the urgent needs. Their priority is to help the most vulnerable people affected by
the conflict, including injured, disabled and older people.

Their activities include:

o Emergency rehabilitation services for people with injuries and amputations. With

reports of tens of thousands of people injured, there is a huge need for emergency
rehabilitation care to prevent injuries becoming permanent disabilities.

o Humanity & Inclusion teams are able to provide immediate rehabilitation care for
hospitalized patients and long-term follow-up for patients with multiple or complex
injuries. Their specialists are based in hospitals, but their teams also work in mobile
units targeting communities and vulnerable groups who cannot access health services. 
Psychological support for people traumatized by the disaster. Individual support
sessions will be provided in hospitals and via a mobile team.

o Distributing mobility aids such as wheelchairs, crutches and walking frames to ensure

the needs of injured, disabled and older people are met.

44
 Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams were responding to the
increasing needs. MSF teams in northwestern Syria began treating patients within the first
hours after the earthquake struck. MSF emergency teams are assessing the needs in the most-
affected areas of southern Turkey. Hatay, Gaziantep, and Diyarbakir seem to have been
hardest-hit by the quakes. The city of Hatay is now closed because of buildings still collapsing.
Assistance will be provided in the city’s outskirts.

While our teams were assessing the needs in Turkey, we have begun food distribution in
shelters in the town of Kilis in partnership with a local organization, delivering 6000 hot meals
each day. On February 15, in collaboration with the Turkish Medical Association, MSF
donated various essential relief items including hygiene kits, electric stoves, winter clothing,
diapers, and baby food to more than 50 families affected by the earthquake at a newly
established camp for survivors in the city of Adiyaman, in southern Turkey.

 CARE Türkiye

Following the deadly earthquakes that impacted Turkey and parts of Northern Syria, CARE
Turkey is increasing its preparedness to respond by prioritizing the delivery of essential items
to people seeking refuge from the earthquake. CARE Türkiye will also continue its existing
cross-border operations to respond to the worst affected areas in Northwest Syria, where on-
the-ground teams and partners are trying to deliver blankets, food, mattresses, tents, and other
non-food items to people in need amid harsh weather conditions.

CARE Türkiye hopes to collaborate with the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management
Presidency in Turkey [AFAD] to deliver essential supplies to people in makeshift shelters
across Turkey where people have sought refuge, including schools, mosques, and other
temporary shelters allocated by the government.

 International Medical Corps

International Medical Corps responded immediately to the earthquakes. In Turkey,

International Medical Corps has deployed three emergency-response team members to conduct
rapid needs assessments and is coordinating with local partners to address immediate needs
related to non-food and food items. Throughout the region, they are expanding their health,

45
mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), protection (including child protection and
gender-based violence support), non-food item distribution, and water, sanitation and hygiene
(WASH) services to address immediate needs of the women, children and men affected by this
disaster.

 BU Turkish Student Association (TSA)

Many students are doing whatever they can to help. Within hours of the quakes, the BU Turkish
Student Association (TSA), which has both Turkish and Turkish-American students, began
raising money to aid the ongoing recovery efforts. The BU club’s primary mode of fundraising
is a Go Fund Me page. The club raised over half of its $5,000 goal—more than $3,000—in the
first 24 hours. Members are also collecting donations and selling TSA sweatshirts, with
proceeds going to support relief efforts. All donations will be sent to the Bridge to Turkey Fund,
a long-established Turkish-American charity established in North Carolina. Any sweatshirts
not sold will be donated to Turkey at the end of the week. Additionally, the club is accepting
new and gently used supplies such as coats, blankets, thermoses, socks, and scarves to send to
Turkey, which is still experiencing a major cold snap. Supplies will be flown directly to Turkey
through a collaboration between the Turkish Consulate General in Boston and Turkish
Airlines. 

 Oxfam

Oxfam and partners providing food, shelter, and blankets in Turkey and Syria. Teams aim to
reach nearly 2 million people affected by earthquake. Oxfam staff and partners are facilitating
the provision of food, shelter, blankets, and psychological support to people in some of the
worst-affected areas of Turkey, including Gaziantep, Hatay, and Mardin.Oxfam, together with
their partners in Turkey and Syria, is working to reach nearly 2 million people--10 percent of
the population affected by the quake--with aid and support so that they can rebuild their lives.

In Turkey, Oxfam KEDV is working closely with dozens of grassroots, women-led

organizations to reach up to 1.5 million people over the next three years. Before the earthquake,
Oxfam KEDV was working with 78 grassroots women’s organizations in the affected areas
and 600 throughout Turkey and intends to continue this collaboration in the humanitarian
response to the earthquake. In the next three months, Oxfam and partners in Turkey are
intending to:

46
o Provide food to people via food packs (ready-to-eat meals) and cooking equipment in areas
where people have lost their homes and shops are closed. They will also provide cash and/or
food vouchers where food shops are open.

o Provide clean drinking water and sanitation facilities: This includes supplying clean
drinking water and setting up toilets and showers in emergency shelters. They will also
work with local authorities to reinstate water supplies, sewage systems, and solid waste
management. They will raise awareness about how to prevent disease outbreaks.

o Keep people safe and respect their rights: They will set up information hubs for reporting
violence, and provide counselling and safe spaces for women and children.

 Al- Khidmat Foundation and other Charities

Several charities scrambled to collect funds and relief goods for the victims of massive
earthquakes in Turkey and Syria that killed thousands of people.

Al-Khidmat Foundation, one of Pakistan’s largest relief and rescue organizations, has set up a
special fund for the purpose, calling upon the nation to donate “generously.” The volunteers
are working in coordination with Hyrat Foundation, a Turkish non-governmental organisation,
in different earthquake-stricken areas. They are in close coordination with Turkish Cooperation
and Coordination Agency (TIKA), which requires trained relief and rescue workers. Al-
Khidmat is selecting its contingent of trained volunteers to help TIKA in the quake-hit areas.
The foundation has designated all its offices for the collection of relief goods and funds for the
quake victims. The relief goods consignments will be sent to Turkey with the help of the
Turkish Embassy, Turkish Airlines, and Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority
(NDMA). A medical team along with medical supplies is set to depart for Turkey in a day or
two.

6.9 Predictions:

The Dutch seismologist Frank Hoogerbeets, who works for the Solar System Geometry Survey
(SSGS) in the Netherlands and "predicted" the earthquake in Turkey on February 3, has
continued to make predictions about Earth's seismic activity using planetary alignment (Figure
6.7).

47
 Figure 6.7: Tweet by Frank Hoogerbeets

Source: https://www.jpost.com/omg/article-735674

In his tweet, he predicted "stronger seismic activity in the coming days," He also attached a
picture of the solar system, indicating that the alignment of different planets would impact
Earth's seismic activity.

48
Task 7: Report on Waste Management System In Astore (Duration: 4 days
Date: 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th March)

The Sixth task assigned was to gather available online data available on Waste Management
System in Astore (District of Gilgit Baltistan) and prepare a report based on following points:

 Solid Waste Generation in Pakistan.

 Reasons for the Increase in waste generation in Pakistan.
 Brief Overview of Waste Generation In Gilgit Baltistan.
 Waste Management System In Astore.
 Suggested Implementation Plan

7.1 Solid Waste Generation in Pakistan

Pakistan generates approximately 49.6 million tons of solid waste a year, increasing more than
2.4 percent annually. In 2018, The Government of Pakistan (GOP) estimates that 87,000 tons
of solid waste is generated per week, mostly from major metropolitan areas. Local and
municipal governments are responsible for collecting waste throughout most of Pakistan’s
major cities. About 50-60 percent of solid waste in the cities is collected.

7.2 Reasons for the Increase in Waste Generation in Pakistan

o Pakistan lacks waste management infrastructure like other developing countries,

creating serious environmental problems. Most municipal waste is either burned,
dumped, or buried on vacant lots, threatening the health and welfare of the general
population.
o The government has failed to launch and promote composting-based projects in a
metropolis where more than 50% of garbage is organic, where the result not only serves
as recovered waste but may be linked with an objective of environmental protection.
o Recycling still takes place in the unorganized sector with little access to technology and
expertise, but because the products are inferior, recycling does not maximize economic
benefits.
o Last but not the least issue is basically in urban Pakistan, our problem is that we view
garbage as kachra (waste), something that is unwanted and needs to be thrown away.

49
7.3 Brief Overview of Waste Generation In Gilgit Baltistan

Gilgit Baltistan with an area of around 10 sq. Km and an estimated population of about 65,845.6
people is most rapidly growing urban settlement of the province. This city generates about 42.5
tonne of waste per day and Municipal Committee Gilgit (MCG) is the authority responsible to
manage this waste. The present annual budget of Municipal committee is around Rs. 1,8900000
(Figure 7.1).

Figure 7.1: Composition of Generated Waste in Gilgit Baltistan

Source: GB-EPA, Current Amount of waste generation

7.4 Waste Management System In Astore

7.4.1 Role of Authorities working in sector of Waste Management

In Astore (Gilgit Baltitsan), Local government has the responsibility for collecting and
disposing of municipal solid waste. Unfortunately, the government of Gilgit-Baltistan has not
taken any proper step for the solid waste disposal. Although some community-based
organizations like, Zulfiqar Abad Area Development Organization (ZADO), Community
Environmental Organization (ECO), Young Environmental Society (YES), are trying their best
on community level to minimize the solid waste to some extent.

50
7.4.2 Waste Handling in Astore

Waste is picked up manually using handcarts, baskets and polythene bags. The waste is
collected through Wheel Barrows and Hand Carts as primary collection and tractors and
dumper trucks as secondary collection. Sweepers are also there to collect waste from roads.
Tractor trolleys are used to collect and transport waste out of the city.

7.4.3 Waste Collection System in Astore

 Primary Collection

In Astore and other districs also have own municipal arrangements for primary collection,
while the collection practices are almost similar in all cities. In all these cities, the primary
collection is done on daily basis with 50 - 60% efficiency overall. In addition to bins; there are
several heaps in each area of the city. During the primary collection more than 30% of the
waste goes unattended, scattered and un-collected and 5-10% finds its way to open sewers and
drains. Primary collection of construction and demolishing waste depends on need bases. The
Cities of Gilgit Baltistan categorized on the basis of primary waste collection to disposal system
(Table 7.1).

 Secondary Collection

At present, the solid waste collection system is mostly based on manual labour arrangements.
However, the final practices need particular attention as the trend is for open dumping without
considering any hygienic factors. There are mostly open places designated for open dumping.
The insufficient number of containers are fixed at need-based locations. Major part of waste
collects in form of small and large heaps. Municipal committees of these cities do not have
engineering criteria to fix the points of containers placements; therefore, the existing system
relies on need-based containers installation mechanism only. The Cities of Gilgit Baltistan
categorized on the basis of primary waste collection to disposal system (Table 7.1).

51
 Table 7.1: Solid Waste Management System, All Cities at a Glance

A-Primary cities: Gilgit and Skardu

Storage Collection Storage Collection Transfer station Transfer Disposal

at the from on street from vehicle
premise premises siders Streets

Make Manually Street Wheel 6 m3 Tractor Open

shift sides barrow/Handc container/filfth trolleys/ope dumping
container heaps arts depots n body sites
trucks

Hand  6 m3 Tractor Open

Carts container/filfth trolleys/ope dumping
depots n body sites
trucks

Street Hand carts 6 m3 Tractor Open

sides and wheel container/filfth trolleys/ope dumping
heaps barrows depots n body sites
trucks

B-Secondary Cities: Ghizer, Chillas, Hunza Nager, Astore and khaplu

Storage Collection Stora Collection Transfer Transfer Open

at the from ge on from Streets station vehicle dumping
premise premises street at MC
siders designate
d
dumping
sites

52
 Make Manually Street Wheel 3 m3 Tractor Open
shift sides barrow/Handc container/filfth trolleys/ope dumping
container heaps arts depots n body at MC
trucks designate
d
dumping
sites

Hand  3 m3 Tractor Open

carts container/filfth trolleys/ope dumping
depots n body at MC
trucks designate
d
dumping
sites

Street Street Wheel 3 m3 Tractor Open

sweepin sides barrow/Handc container/filfth trolleys/ope dumping
g heaps arts depots n body at MC
trucks designate
d
dumping
sites

Source: http://gbepa.gog.pk/files/Solid_Waste_Report_2012-12-20.pdf

7.4.4 Ongoing and Future Projects in Astore

Clean Gilgit & Hunza Project is an initiative on waste management, in partnership with Nestlé
Pakistan, Gilgit Baltistan Waste Management Company (GBWMC) and KADO. It focuses on
waste management and recycling system for Gilgit and Hunza by encouraging waste
management of 200,000Kg of plastics in 2021, eventually leading up to 1000 tons by 2025 to
make the area waste-free and promote sustainable tourism in the region.

53
7.4.5 Composition of Waste in Astore

Major sources of waste in Gilgit city include, Household waste 40%, Commercial
establishment (e.g., shops and hotels, offices) 60%. This generated waste is comprised of
organic waste (e.g., food waste) 70-80% Inorganic waste (e.g., plastic, glass and metals) 20-
30%.

7.4.6 Domestic Solid Waste

Domestic solid waste in Astore (Gilgit Baltistan) is a serious concern for relevant departments
and agro pastoral communities in general while municipalities and conservation organizations.
A study reveals that 70% MSW generation comes from domestic activities in urban areas. The
domestic waste in the district is around 5 metric tons per day with 78% organic and 22%
inorganic solid waste.

7.4.7 Commercial Waste

All municipal solid waste emanating from business establishments such as stores, markets,
office buildings, restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment centers or Commercial solid
waste can be divided into ordinary and special solid waste (Table 7.2).

Table 7.2: City Wise Commercial Waste (Kgs)

Gilgit Skardu Hunza-Nagar Astore

Total Waste 48403 35547 5934 3120

Hospitals/Clinics/Stores 602 460 82 70

Slaughter 892 593 99 51

Workshops 1620 1080 180 93

Construction/Demolition 6498 4312 725 395

Animal Dung 37500 28125 4688 2428

Miscellaneous 479 352 59 31

54
7.4.8 Special Waste

Special waste includes Cement kiln dust, Mining waste, Oil and gas drilling mud and oil
production brines, Phosphate rock mining, beneficiation, and processing waste, Uranium
waste, Utility waste (i.e., fossil fuel combustion waste). This waste is mostly comprised of
commercial and industrial waste. This waste can further be categorized as waste generated from
workshops, hospitals and medical facilities, slaughter waste, animal dung, construction and
demolition, dead animals and process factories of chemical, mechanical and electrical products.
The commercial ordinary waste contains paper, plastic bags, metal pieces, wood, rubber, food
waste from restaurants, cloth pieces, bottles, glass, vegetable and fruit waste, soil and used
parts of various equipment and machinery

7.4.9 Construction and Demolition waste

Construction and demolition are a continuous activity as a part of new development and
rehabilitation of the old structures in any planned city. Construction and Demolition waste
mostly contains stone, concrete blocks, iron pieces, wood, tiles, marble pieces and soil material.
Generally, the major part of this waste is used in backfilling and also reused in construction
works; only 30% find its way to municipal collection system and finally dumped at the MC
disposal site. Average waste generated from construction and demolition activities 0.3 in
Astore.

7.4.10 Transportation in Astore

In Astore, approximately 12 metric tons of domestic and commercial waste is being generated
in the city. Around 45-50% of the total generated waste is handled by MC. This solid waste is
transferred manually into tractor trolleys which is ultimately disposed of at 3km away from the
city in form of open dumping (Table 7.3).

55
Table 7.3: District-wise Number of Vehicles, with Waste Lifting Capacity and Condition

City Vehicle Type # of vehicle Lifting Capacitor Conditions

Tractor MF 240 1 800-1000 KG Non-Functional

Astore Tractor 1 800-1000 KG Non-Functional

Source: http://gbepa.gog.pk/files/Solid_Waste_Report_2012-12-20.pdf

7.4.11 Final Disposal system in Astore

Disposal of solid waste is carried out in the form of open dumping in depressions in out skirts
of the city (Figure 7.2). The plastic bags in the windy season spread flying in the air and cause
inconvenience to the moving traffic. 45 %of waste is being openly disposed of at the only
official designated disposal site named Chilmes Das, situated near KIU at a distance of 13km
from the main city.

A survey was conducted by Sheher Saaz to know what people think the most adequate site for
dumping, the responses were recorded in which 39% people think Fina nala is best place for
dumping, 34% people go with Tourpi and 27% people write Danal Dass the adequate place for
disposal of waste (Figure 7.3).

56
 Figure 7.2: Map showing dumping areas in Astore
Source: http://gbepa.gog.pk/files/Solid_Waste_Report_2012-12-20.pdf

Figure 7.3: Survey conducted by Sheher Saaz

57
7.5 Suggested Implementation Plan

To be concluded, the situation of waste management can be improved by implement the

following suggestions:

 Maintain a database for all disposal services including the identification of the type,
volume, and location of all wastes and reclaimable matter.

 Coordinate all contracting activities as the relationship must be a public-private

partnership.

 Establish a workable materials reclamation program: Recycling will be performed in

all Government-owned or operated buildings when required by local or state laws. In
the absence of laws, recycling will be performed when there are 100 or more employees
in a building and there is a market for the recyclable material. Recycling will be
undertaken whenever it is deemed to be in the best interest of the Government, taking
into account environmental and economic factors.

 Analyze all wastes and waste streams to determine the most efficient, cost effective and
safe method of removal.

 Provide training to field personnel on the available waste removal services.

 Work closely with the Safety and Environmental Management Division to identify and
safely remove hazardous wastes or waste related conditions which may result in an
accident or health threat.

 Maintain an awareness of all local, state and Federal waste disposal laws and
regulations.

 Reuse, recycling and segregation can thus take place in the home, thereby lowering the
amount of garbage that needs to be collected and transported.

58
Task 8: Report on the causes of pollution in Swat River with
recommendations (Duration 4 days, Date: 18th, 23rd-25th February)

The seventh task was to search for information about the Swat River. Different points were
discussed including General details about the river, any recent efforts for addressing the
pollution issue. The causes of pollution and recommendations were also discussed to resolve
this issue.

8.1 General Information on River Swat

The river with its tributaries forms the drainage basin for the Swat valley. It commences at
Kalam with the confluence of Ushu and Utror Rivers and flows for about 160 km across the
valley upto Chakdara. The total length of the River is 250 km from Kalam to River Kabul near
Charsadda. Many large and small tributaries join the river along its course River Swat flows
with a higher speed in a narrow gorge with an average width of 35-40 m, from Kalam to
Baghderai. Downstream the river spreads upto 400 m. It drains about 14,000 square kms area.
The drain area comprises rugged mountain varying in heights from 600 m to more than 6,000
m with a steady gen rise from south to north. Two main canals, Upper Swat and Lower Swat
canal have been dug out during the last century for irrigation of Peshawar valley plains south
of Malakand pass and for power generation at Jaban and Dargai. No of cities, towns and
villages mostly located closer to the banks pollute the river Swat with solid and liquid waste.

8.2 Causes of Pollution

There are number of contributing factors polluting the river Swat. Few out of these were as
under:

 Non Available of Sanitation Plans

The solid and liquid waste of all the cities, towns and villages are put into river Swat due to
non-availability of proper sanitation / sewerage schemes. Mingora city having approximate
population of 0.5 million have no sewerage sys and almost 75 % of solid waste of the city is
also put into the river. Similarly, all Tehsil Municipal Authorities of Swat do not have any
sanitation scheme.

59
 Commercial Waste of Hotels / Industries / Workshops

There are approximately 500 hotels in Kalam and Swat and no of industries, which do not have
any sanitation scheme or waste treatment plan. Most of the hotels throw away their waste
directly into river. Moreover, chemical waste of industries is also put into river without any
treatment thus polluting the river to a great extent. A large number of auto workshop and
service stations have been constructed on its banks in the near past. Human waste and waste
from these workshops and svc stations render the water very dirty and black in color. There is
no sys of collection for solid waste and its proper disposal, resulting in piles of waste all over
the city and throughout the streams and canal (Figure 8.1).

Figure 8.1: Waste dumping practice along the river

Source:https://tribune.com.pk/story/1121886/dumping-ground-swat-river-polluted-
irresponsible-waste-disposal

 Lack of Awareness

The communities lack collective thinking about environmental problems and have developed
this habit of putting the responsibility on the municipality. Due to lack of awareness and non-

60
adherence to rules and regulations, the Government and people are not taking any step to
prevent pollution of river Swat.

 Insufficient Tree Plantation

Swat valley had been famous for its greenery. Illegal cutting of trees and insufficient tree
plantation has resulted into enhancement of Total Dissolved Solvents (TDS) in drainage water.

 Lack of Planning by Government Departments

Government departments are oblivious to the problem despite availability of “NWFP (KPK)
Rivers Protection Act 2002”. Mingora city has only 3 trucks and 4 tractors to transport the solid
waste of 0.5 million population. Whereas, there is no sewerage system available in the city thus
the entire liquid waste and 75% of solid waste is thrown away into river Swat.

8.3 Efforts Carried Out in Recent History

NGOs and government departments have initiated various steps in the recent history to address
the problems; however, these could not achieve their desired results. Few are as under:

 Pollution Study (1999)

Pollution survey of River Swat was periodically carried out to check the physical, chemical
and biological characteristics and the intensity and sources of pollution in the River, which
indicated fairly high level of pollution, specially contributed by Jambil stream of Mingora.

 Ecological Survey (2000)

The ecological survey of the River identified uncontrolled expansion of villages and use of
pesticides for agriculture, thereby threatening the important animal and plant species in the
river in specific and the valley in gen.

 Hotel Information Survey

The uncontrolled mushroom hotel growth in violation of the Rivers Protection Act 2002 in the
tourist spots and in the city of Mingora had a negative impact on River Swat. The survey
indicated that about 500 hotels in Swat and Kalam gen ignore basic sanitation rules by not

61
having septic tanks and soakage pits and improper management for solid waste disposal. The
liquid waste is directly opened to the nearby nullah or the river.

 Mingora Solid and Liquid Waste Survey

The status of direct disposal to the nearby water channels in Mingora city was assessed. It
indicated that most buildings open their toilets directly to the streams ultimately falling into
river.

 Sanitation Master Plan

The population of Mingora increased from 38499 in 1972 to approximately over 0.5 million in
2010 thus necessitating development of a master plan for disposal of liquid and solid waste to
check the environmental hazard for the city dwellers and people downstream in the villages.
Unfortunately, that plan could not be implemented yet.

 NWFP (Now KPK) Rivers Protection Act 2002

Due to the efforts of EPS and RSPC, the Act was promulgated on 19 Jan 2002. The act was
extended to the whole of NWFP (KPK) including Swat. If properly implemented, the Act will
certainly be helpful in long term protection of the rivers of the province including River Swat,
for which it was drafted in first place. Copy of the Act is attached as Annexure C.

 Sanitation Scheme – Village Chalyar

Sanitation scheme for village Chalyar was designed in close consultation with community
members of the village on the basis of component share. The scheme was completed, however,
its effectiveness needs to be assessed.

 Land Use Planning and Zoning (LUPZ)

Land use planning for proper management of resources in the area to guide its future growth
in planned and orderly manner with the provision of all necessary facilities was carried out but
could not be effectively implemented due to pol and bureaucratic influences.

62
8.4 Recommendations:

The following recommendations are provided as per instructions for conservation of River
Swat:

(1) Manage the solid and liquid waste produced in Mingora, on priority, through a plan for
sanitation scheme that already exists.

(2) Properly manage the refuse disposal in all the villages particularly near the watercourses.

(3) Raise awareness of communities about controlled application of fertilizers and pesticides.

(4) Hotels should be asked to properly dispose their waste as per the rules.

(5) Tourists should be educated to avoid polluting the area through sign boards and pamphlets.

63
Task 9: Survey Data Entry in Excel Sheets (Duration 2 days, Date: 26th, 27th

February)

The seventh task was to enter already conducted survey data in excel sheets. The survey data
was gathered at Renala-Okara road and after data entry, data cleaning was also done by me in
which errors are removed and produce a high-quality dataset that can be analysed to draw
meaningful insights and conclusions (Figure 9.1). Below are some of the screenshots featuring
the data in excel sheets:

64
Figure 9.1: Screenshot of Excel Sheets

65
References

https://tribune.com.pk/story/670072/peshawar-green-clean-hopes

https://urbanpolicyunit.gkp.pk/documents/final-land-use-plan-of-district-charsadda-draft/

https://www.lgkp.gov.pk/districts/district-charsadda/

https://www.bioenergyconsult.com/peshawar-swm/

https://www.adb.org/projects/documents/pak-51036-002-eia

https://kp.gov.pk/page/water_sanitation_services_peshawar_wssp_services

https://en.wikipedia.org/wikhttps://reliefweb.int/report/turkiye/turkey-earthquake-emergency-
situation-report-06042023i/2023_Turkey%E2%80%93Syria_earthquake

http://www.gbepa.gog.pk/solid-waste/

Khan, M., Khan, M. N. and Aslam, Mania. 2003.River Ravi Potentials, Pollution and solutions.
Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences, 6(2): 167-175.

Irfan, M., Gadir, A., Mumtaz, M. and Ahmad, S.R. 2020. An unintended challenge of
microscopic pollution in the urban surface water system of Lahore, Pakistan. Environ Sci
Pollute Res int, 27(14): 16718-16730.

66