Award for Jhang Journalist Highlights Need for Grassroots Climate Reporting in Pakistan

FAISALABAD: The growing significance of climate journalism beyond major cities was highlighted as Wajid Ali, a young journalist from Jhang, secured first place in a climate change reporting contest organized by the British High Commission in Islamabad. His story shed light on the everyday experiences of Pakistan’s street workers, among the most vulnerable to rising temperatures and environmental hazards.

Published on SAMAA Digital under the title “How Pakistan’s Street Workers See Climate Change as God’s Will,” the feature explored how many informal laborers perceive climate shifts as a divine occurrence rather than a human-induced crisis. To help promote awareness, Wajid engaged religious scholars who explained that faith-based perspectives and scientific realities can align to support climate action.

Recognizing his work, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott hosted a reception in his honour at her residence in Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave. Climate journalism leads Sneha Lala, Nimra Zaheer, and Rabia Malik were also present, praising Wajid for amplifying marginalized voices and addressing a sensitive link between culture, belief, and environmental awareness.

Marriott noted that inclusive storytelling rooted in local realities is vital to improving public communication on climate change. She stressed that journalists, particularly those reporting from smaller districts like Jhang, play an essential role in helping communities understand risks and build resilience as Pakistan faces intensifying climate impacts.

The contest is part of the British High Commission’s ongoing support for climate-focused media initiatives in Pakistan, aimed at strengthening skills for solution-oriented and public-interest reporting at the community level.