Activists have recently emphasized the need of renewable energy in Pakistan and highlighted the harmful effects of 'Coal-mining.
The Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) first online rally on Wednesday, demanded to switch to alternative renewable energy solutions and suggested an end to the use of coal and other fossil-based fuel in power plants. Addressing the rally, PFF chairperson Muhammad Ali Shah said that coal power plants established on Sindh's coastal belt were a threat to the environment.
He added that they were unable to come out on the streets
to protest for their cause due to the coronavirus pandemic, but they would
continue to raise their voice through online platforms.
The online rally was attended by people affected by the
power plants and the members of civil society from Pakistan as well as from
abroad.
It is pertinent to mention here that reserves with 175
billion tonnes of coal had been found in Thar. However, coal mining is not favorable
for either humans or the environment. Moreover, Gorano reservoir had displaced
several people, their pathways and grasslands.
Moreover, water schemes were developed to provide water to
run the Thar power plants, which were also harming people and the environment.
Shah reiterated that two dams had already been constructed
at Nabisar and Vejhiar, while two others were also being developed and would be
connected through a 62-kilometre long pipeline. Water for these schemes would
be taken from the Makhi Farsh canal, which was at the tail end of Nara Canal,
he explained.
"The residents of that area already do not receive
water for agriculture. This withdrawal of water will further affect the
area," he added.
Many activists opined that Pakistan could generate 300,000
megawatts of energy through windmills and thousands of megawatts through solar
means. It seems that like that they are not against coal-powered plants, but
want the promotion of alternative sources
of renewable energy as well.
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