Marking Earth Day 2026, an 11-member delegation of the Karachi-based National Forum for Environment & Health (NFEH) visited Islamkot in Tharparkar to witness firsthand a remarkable model of sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and community uplift unfolding at the Thar coalfields.
The delegation, led by NFEH President Muhammad Naeem Qureshi, was comprehensively briefed on a nearly decade-long journey led by the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC), Thar Foundation, and their partners, including Indus Hospital. The briefing highlighted how large-scale coal mining and power generation projects have been executed with a strong commitment to environmental protection and socio-economic uplift of local Thari communities.
Officials emphasised that Thar represents one of Pakistan’s first large-scale public-private partnership models where natural resource extraction has been integrated with sustainability, social development, and ecological preservation from the outset.
Speaking during the Earth Day ceremony at Block-II, SECMC’s General Manager CSR, Farhan Ansari, outlined pioneering initiatives redefining sustainable mining in Pakistan. These include induction of electric dump trucks to gradually replace diesel fleets, significantly reducing carbon emissions, alongside plans for dedicated EV charging infrastructure.
A flagship initiative, the Thar Million Tree Programme, has resulted in the plantation of over 1.3 million trees, including native shade and fruit species, with active community participation ensuring long-term sustainability. This is complemented by an innovative food waste-to-compost project converting organic waste into valuable input for afforestation.
The delegation was also informed about extensive solarisation efforts powering villages, schools, healthcare units, and reverse-osmosis water filtration plants—ensuring access to clean energy and safe drinking water. Strategic partnerships with organisations such as The Citizens Foundation and Shahid Afridi Foundation have further strengthened education and healthcare infrastructure in the region.
Additionally, initiatives like fish farming and bio-saline agriculture are utilising underground water extracted during mining operations—turning environmental challenges into livelihood opportunities.
SECMC and Thar Foundation reaffirmed their commitment to adhering to national and international environmental standards, ensuring safe and responsible mining practices.
Addressing the gathering, Muhammad Naeem Qureshi termed the Thar project a “transformational force” capable of eliminating poverty and underdevelopment in Tharparkar while contributing to Pakistan’s energy security. He lauded SECMC and Thar Foundation for setting a benchmark in integrating sustainability with industrial development.
NFEH General Secretary Ruqiya Naeem praised women empowerment initiatives, particularly training local Thari women as heavy vehicle drivers—an unprecedented step towards gender inclusion.
NFEH Vice President Nadeem Ashraf called upon NGOs and philanthropic organisations to collaborate with SECMC and Thar Foundation to accelerate regional development, appreciating their focus on education and technical training for youth.
The delegation visited key project sites, including solar-powered RO plants, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, plantation areas, mining operations, and power plants. To commemorate Earth Day, members also participated in a tree plantation drive, reinforcing their commitment to a greener future.
The visit concluded on a culturally vibrant and spiritually enriching note. At a special gala dinner, local Thari musicians and singers—supported by the Thar Foundation—mesmerised the delegation with traditional performances, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region. The delegation also visited a historic Hindu temple in Islamkot, witnessing firsthand the exemplary interfaith harmony that defines Tharparkar. The memorable tour culminated with a visit to the scenic Karoonjhar Hills in Nagarparkar, leaving participants inspired by the unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and sustainable progress in Thar.
