Pakistan

Pakistan is home to world’s largest ice glaciers

Published

4 years ago

February 13, 2021

Editor

GILGIT, (APP):For millenia,glaciers have formed life lines of cultures,food production,livelihoods and biodiversity.
In modern times ,these rivers of ice also considered as the water reservoirs or water banks of the country provide cooling water for power stations and water supplies for industry and hence contributing immensely in boosting the economy of countries.
Pakistan is home to world’s largest ice glaciers out of the polar region. Spreading over an area of 16933 square kilometer, there are over 5000 glaciers in the Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral regions of Pakistan which include the famous Siachin Glacier, Biafo Glacier, Khoordhopin Glacier, Batura Glacier, Braldu Glacier, Snow Lake and many more these glaciers are the major source of Water feeding the major rivers in Pakistan. In the wake of the alarming increase in the Global warming, these glaciers are facing a serious threat, resulting an existential threat not just to the over 2 million people of Gilgit-Baltistan but also the 200 million people of Pakistan.
Glacier depletion especially the melting were causing flash floods in many areas of Pakistan causing human displacement and lose of lives. In future this can affect agriculture, drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power, and ecological habitats.
This can also affect Pakistan’s economy that depends mainly on water from glacier melt.
A group of mountaineers and researcher from Shimshal Valley – Hunza Gilgit, reached Askoli, a remote mountain village in Skardu, after walking across the Braldu Pass. They are on a mission to raise awareness about saving glaciers from depleting.
The expedition had started from Shimshal Village in Hunza-Gojal on January 1, this year.
The expedition members surveyed Mulungdi glacier and Khurdupin glacier before embarking on their journey to Askoli on January 6. Finally they have reached Askoli. Glacier, Batura Glacier, Braldu Glacier, Snow Lake and many more these glaciers are the major source of Water feeding the major rivers in Pakistan. Keeping in view this alarming situation, Pakistan Integrated Mountain Conservancy Program (PIMCP) -an initiative by young researchers and mountaineers is going to organize the 1st Winter Glacier Conservancy Awareness Expedition 2017. The expedition members, originally, included Abdul Joshi, Niamat Karim, Daulat Muhammed, Bulbul Karim, Eid Muhammed, Ali Rehmat, Mansoor Karim, Syed Zaman, Jalaluddin and Hidayat Shah, all hailing from Shimshal valley. Of these members, Abdul Joshi, Saeed Zaman, Niamat karim, Hameed ullah, Bulbul karim and Daulat Muhammad were able to cross the highly difficult terrain, including Braldu, Lupke La, Snow Lake, Biafo, Khoordhopin and Yazghail Glacier.

A research expedition had also been held already, in which young researchers and activists, Adnan Mirza (Gulmigt), Reena (Moorkhun), Reema Shimshal and Syed Ahmad Khan also took part.
The expedition was aimed at monitoring and collecting data to analyze the change in the glaciers due to global warming.
Samiullah, one of the researchers in the PIMCP, said that the data and information collected during the expedition would be shared with various University students and research organization in Pakistan who were conducting research work on glaciers.
“It will also work for raising awareness about the rapid and alarming rate of glaciers’ depletion due to human made Global Warming and inspiring people at every level around the world in general and Pakistan in particular to stand up and take some substantial steps in addressing the issues of global warming and climate change,” he added.

Pakistan

“Through Iqbal’s Words, We Find the Spirit to Soar as One Nation”

Published

1 week ago

November 9, 2024

EDITOR

a poet, philosopher, and politician but also a visionary who planted the seeds of unity, self-respect, and resilience in the hearts of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. Iqbal’s words were the catalysts that motivated people to recognize their potential, unite under a shared purpose, and ultimately pave the way for an independent Pakistan. His poetry and philosophy still resonate, reminding us of the values we hold dear and the power of unity, faith, and discipline in overcoming challenges.

Iqbal’s Philosophy: A Call to Selfhood and Unity

Iqbal was deeply influenced by the concept of “Khudi,” or selfhood, which he introduced as an idea of recognizing and cultivating the inner strength within each individual. He encouraged Muslims to develop their personal and spiritual strength, advocating for a life driven by purpose and unwavering resolve. For Iqbal, the idea of “Khudi” was not merely about individual development but about understanding that one’s personal strength contributes to the strength of the entire nation.

He also emphasized unity, which he saw as an essential component for the progress and survival of any community. Iqbal believed that unity was the bedrock upon which a nation could stand strong, and he used his poetry to inspire a collective identity that transcended individual differences. His call to unity was not just for the Muslims of India but for all who valued justice, peace, and a meaningful life.

The Message of Faith and Discipline

Iqbal’s poetry speaks powerfully about faith—faith in God, in oneself, and in the potential of a unified community. His famous verse, Sitaron se aage jahan aur bhi hain, abhi ishq ke imtihan aur bhi hain (There are worlds beyond the stars, and many more tests of love to come), exemplifies his belief that faith could elevate one’s spirit to new heights. Iqbal saw faith as an energizing force that could help people transcend their limitations, reach their aspirations, and maintain hope in the face of adversity.

For Iqbal, discipline was the natural partner of faith. He believed that true faith must be complemented by discipline to channel energy into productive efforts. In his view, a disciplined nation, united in its principles, would have the resilience to face any challenge, no matter how overwhelming.

Inspiring Pakistan’s Youth: Iqbal’s Enduring Legacy

Iqbal’s influence extends beyond his lifetime, continuing to inspire generations. His poetry and philosophy encourage today’s youth to take pride in their heritage, recognize their potential, and work for a prosperous future. Pakistan’s youth, often regarded as the nation’s greatest asset, can find guidance in Iqbal’s call for unity, faith, and discipline. In a world filled with distractions, his message remains clear: true progress lies in developing oneself and working together for the greater good.

Unity in Diversity: Building a Nation

Iqbal’s vision of Pakistan was one where people, regardless of ethnic or linguistic background, would come together as one. His poetry remains a symbol of this unity, speaking of brotherhood and harmony. He knew that for Pakistan to succeed, its people would have to put aside their differences and focus on a shared goal. This vision is especially relevant today, as a diverse Pakistan works toward the common ideals that Iqbal cherished.

Conclusion: Soaring Together as One Nation

Allama Iqbal’s philosophy of selfhood, unity, faith, and discipline is a timeless message. His words urge us to become better versions of ourselves and to use our strengths to build a stronger, more united Pakistan. By embracing his teachings, we can truly embody the spirit that drives a nation forward. As Pakistan continues to face challenges, Iqbal’s words serve as a reminder that by standing together with a shared vision, Pakistan can not only overcome any adversity but also soar to greater heights.