Shahid has introduced cash rewards as a form of appreciation for exemplary work, fostering motivation & morale among his team
Mumtaz Ahmed Bhatti
Pakistan, like much of the world, is grappling with the severe consequences of climate change. The country has seen an escalation in extreme weather patterns, glacial melting, and deforestation, leading to floods, landslides, and a diminishing biodiversity.
The fight against these pressing environmental issues requires commitment, action, and leadership from policymakers and bureaucrats. Among the individuals rising to this challenge is Shahid Zaman, currently serving as the Secretary of Forests, Climate Change, and Environment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).Shahid Zaman’s approach to his roles in the Forest Departments of Gilgit-Baltistan, Punjab, and now in KP stands out in a field often burdened by traditional bureaucratic limitations.
His efforts have gained recognition as effective in tackling climate challenges, focusing on the preservation and expansion of forest cover, promoting native species, and encouraging accountability within field staff.Before discussing Shahid Zaman’s contributions, it is crucial to understand the environmental challenges facing Pakistan.
The country is highly vulnerable to climate change, ranking among the top ten nations most affected by climate-induced disasters. Pakistan’s glaciers, located in the northern regions, are one of its most crucial natural resources, acting as a source for freshwater rivers.
These glaciers are rapidly melting due to rising global temperatures, threatening Pakistan’s water security and leading to devastating floods in downstream regions.Shahid Zaman’s work in forestry and environmental conservation assumes great significance.
As the Secretary of Forests, Climate Change, and Environment in KP, Zaman’s initiatives in forest restoration and climate resilience offer a beacon of hope in a challenging landscape.Shahid Zaman’s career in public service spans several provincial roles, particularly in the field of forestry and environmental management.His assignments in Gilgit-Baltistan, Punjab, and KP have been marked by his consistent dedication to preserving and expanding forest resources. Shahid’s motto, “Save forests and grow forests,” captures his mission to safeguard Pakistan’s forest ecosystems as a primary defense against climate change.What sets Zaman apart is his rejection of a conventional, bureaucratic approach. Instead, he focuses on on-ground, practical efforts, making regular field visits and maintaining a close relationship with field staff. His commitment to accountability and transparency has made him a respected figure within the departments he has served, with a reputation for rewarding good performance and actively addressing inefficiencies.One of Shahid Zaman’s core principles is the prioritization of native species.Native species, having evolved in specific environmental conditions, are more resilient and sustainable than exotic species, which often disrupt local ecosystems.
By promoting the growth of indigenous trees, Zaman’s initiatives help restore ecological balance, support biodiversity, and prevent soil degradation.This approach not only aids in carbon sequestration but also creates habitats for wildlife and protects water sources. Shahid Zaman’s focus on native species is a significant step toward establishing resilient forests that are better equipped to survive in changing climatic conditions.
It sets a precedent for future reforestation projects, underlining the importance of choosing species that will sustain Pakistan’s unique ecosystems.Unlike many bureaucrats, who often remain confined to administrative offices.Shahid believes in regular field engagement. His frequent visits to forests and conservation sites keep him informed about the on-ground realities and challenges faced by field staff.
This approach allows him to understand the practical aspects of forestry management, assess the success of reforestation projects firsthand, and make informed decisions based on real-time data.Through his field visits, Shahid has also cultivated a culture of accountability.
Field staff are encouraged to perform their duties with diligence, as their efforts are regularly monitored and recognized.Shahid has introduced cash rewards as a form of appreciation for exemplary work, fostering motivation and morale among his team.
This system not only ensures that projects are executed efficiently but also builds a committed workforce aligned with the mission of environmental preservation.Shahid Zaman’s work goes beyond local forestry projects; he is acutely aware of the global implications of climate change and how they intersect with Pakistan’s environmental challenges.
In each of his roles, Shahid has emphasized the importance of proactive climate action to mitigate the escalating effects of global warming. His passion for forests and wildlife stems from a deep understanding of their role in climate resilience, particularly in a country as ecologically diverse as Pakistan.Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change makes Shahid’s work especially relevant. His efforts in reforestation and ecosystem restoration contribute not only to local environmental stability but also to global climate goals.
Through these initiatives, Shahid exemplifies the role that local officers can play in addressing global issues. By focusing on sustainable practices and conservation, Shahid’s contributions are a testament to how regional action can have a broader, international impact.Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is one of Pakistan’s most forested provinces, making it a focal point for national reforestation efforts.
Shahid Zaman’s approach to forestry and climate action offers a model for other provinces in Pakistan. His focus on hands-on leadership, accountability, and environmental sustainability has the potential to reshape Pakistan’s approach to climate resilience.
If secretaries in Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan adopt similar practices, a coordinated, nationwide strategy could emerge to counter the effects of climate change.
The benefits of Zaman’s model extend beyond immediate environmental gains. By fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, Shahid’s approach addresses the challenges of bureaucratic inefficiency and corruption, which often impede the success of environmental initiatives.
His model also emphasizes community involvement, as reforestation and conservation efforts require the cooperation of local communities to be truly effective.Incorporating Shahid Zaman’s methods into a national framework would entail training other provincial secretaries and their teams to prioritize field engagement, reward exceptional performance, and develop policies that emphasize native species and sustainability.
Such a collaborative approach would allow Pakistan to build a resilient network of forests, mitigating the impacts of climate change and contributing to a healthier ecosystem for future generations.
