Green Pakistan, wildlife preservation main target in ecological conservation: PM.

ISLAMABAD -- Terming environmental degradation a serious challenge for Pakistan, Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday said the government was carrying out a massive programme to protect the country having diversity of 12 natural ecological zones.

Addressing at the inaugural session of three-day Asia Regional Conservation Forum - Greening Asia for Nature and People organized by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the prime minister said the main target was to make Pakistan green and preserve wildlife in its natural forests, alps and deserts.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said protecting planet was the biggest service to humanity by making it liveable for future generations.

He mentioned 10 Billion Tree Tsunami, steps for cleaning of rivers and air and waste disposal system as significant projects under the umbrella of environmental protection programme.

Imran Khan said Pakistan's northern areas exuded unmatched scenic beauty in the world, however regretted that timber mafia under patronage of politicians wreaked havoc with natural environment.

He said strict action was taken against such mafia by the provincial government of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf to check ruthless cutting of forests.

He recalled visiting Himalayas every summer during early years of life, which he said developed his passion for protecting Pakistan's natural environment.

He said in his book written 30 years ago, he warned about the looming dangers to the country's forests and also made a pledge to take strong measures for environmental protection.

The prime minister mentioned worsening air pollution in the neighbouring India and said smog in Lahore was also a matter of concern, which required urgent...