15 national parks become fully functional for first time with proper ecological set-up.

ISLAMABAD -- Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday said with Pakistan facing severe challenges of climate change due to glacier-melting, the protection of its natural and ecological environment was need of the hour.

Speaking at the launch of 'Protected Area Initiative' here, the prime minister said protection of green areas along with promotion of eco-tourism was vital for the country development.

Under the initiative, 15 national parks covering a land area of 7,300 sq km have been made fully functional for the first time with proper ecological management and governance.

Of these, nine are new and recently declared national parks while six others earlier had the status of 'paper parks' with mere notifications.

The protected green area coverage will be enhanced from current 13 to 15 percent of the country's land area spanning mountains in the north to the scrub forests in plains and a marine-protected area in south of the country. In initial phase, almost 5,000 direct nature jobs will be generated for the youth.

Imran Khan said Pakistan was blessed with 12 diverse ecological zones, making it a rich destination for eco-tourism.

However, he said the country required a further improvement in learning about administration and preservation of national parks.

Imran Khan directed the Chief Minister Khyber Pukhtunkhwa not to open tourist areas for public unless putting in place byelaws regarding protection and preservation of natural environment.

He pointed out that Galiyat and Murree were facing problems due to lack of civic planning and policy on eco-tourism.

He said cities were facing problems of water shortage and waste disposal facilities due to absence or outdated master plans.

He said the government would consider making town planning a part of its Green Initiative.

Imran Khan mentioned that biodiversity of Margalla hills was splendid with its unique flora and fauna, saying that...