ISLAMABAD: The 14th Pakistan Mountain Festival, organized every year by Devcom-Pakistan to celebrate International Mountain Day, began on Sunday with a successful cleanliness drive at Margalla Hills Trail-V.
More than 100 enthusiastic students from various universities joined hands to create awareness about the importance of conservation of mountain ecosystems and conservation of natural resources. International Mountain Day, celebrated globally on December 11, was established by the United Nations to highlight the critical importance of mountain ecosystems in supporting life on Earth.
Mountains cover 22 percent of the planet’s land surface and provide vital resources, including fresh water, for half of humanity. The day also serves to draw attention to the challenges facing mountain regions, including climate change, habitat loss, and the struggles of mountain communities. Addressing the participants, Munir Ahmed, Executive Director of Devcom-Pakistan and founder of Pakistan Mountain Festival, highlighted the importance of mountain ecosystems in maintaining biodiversity, regulating climate and providing essential services such as clean water and clean air. Emphasized the important role. “Mountains are life support systems for millions of people around the world. Protecting these ecosystems is not just a local responsibility but a global imperative,” he said.
Munir Ahmed also highlighted the role of Pakistan Mountain Festival in creating awareness about these issues over the last 14 years. “Citizens can actively play their role as protectors of the mountains. The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) has played an important role in maintaining the Margalla Hills National Park with the support of the citizens. Should stay.