Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said the Punjab Climate Observatory, now under construction in Lahore, is the first facility of its kind in Pakistan. She called it a turning point in the province’s efforts to fight climate change.
In a statement posted on X, she said the facility will act as a hub for real-time monitoring of weather, soil, water and air quality. It will be supported by a climate intelligence system driven by artificial intelligence.
Flood forecasting and early warning plans
Nawaz said the observatory would strengthen flood prediction, early warning systems and weather forecasting. This would improve the province’s preparedness for climate-related disasters.
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The facility will also house environmental data resources and research laboratories. Young climate scientists will be able to learn and conduct research there, she added.
The project is also expected to bring international scientific cooperation and partnerships together in one place. She said it would support evidence-based policymaking and public awareness.
Punjab’s ambition as a regional climate leader
The government wants Punjab to become a regional leader in climate innovation and an international partner on environmental issues. It also aims to develop a new generation of climate scientists, the chief minister said.
“Preserving the environment, communities, and future generations remained an important responsibility,” she continued.
