Danish Ambassador Stresses Urgent Need for Wastewater Treatment to Address Environmental Challenges in Faisalabad
FAISALABAD: Denmark’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Jakob Linulf, has underscored the vital importance of wastewater treatment in tackling environmental and climate issues in developing countries like Pakistan. Speaking at a seminar organized by WASA Faisalabad under the leadership of Managing Director Aamer Aziz, the ambassador highlighted how untreated wastewater exacerbates air and environmental pollution, accelerating climate change.
“The ongoing smog crisis in Pakistan and its neighboring countries is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address these issues,” said Mr. Linulf. He emphasized that Denmark’s collaboration with WASA Faisalabad, facilitated through the Danish Sustainable Investment Fund (DSIF), will help establish a wastewater treatment plant in the city. “This initiative is crucial for addressing Faisalabad’s environmental pollution challenges and promoting sustainable development,” he added.
Mrs. Bente Schiller, Director of Investments at DSIF, shared that the groundwork for the PKR 19 billion project has been completed, and contractors are set to arrive in Faisalabad early next year. The plant, expected to be completed within four years, will treat 44 million gallons of wastewater daily, which will then be reused for agricultural purposes. She also commended the efforts of Project Director Kamran Raza Kahlon and the Project Management Unit for their dedication to the project.
Director General FDA, Muhammad Asif Chaudhry, highlighted the strong ties between Denmark and Pakistan, emphasizing how their collaboration through DANIDA and WASA is paving the way for the mega wastewater treatment plant. He stated, “This plant will significantly reduce air and environmental pollution, improving the quality of life for Faisalabad’s citizens and contributing to a cleaner, healthier urban environment.”
FDA Director General Muhammad Asif Chaudhry, Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf, DSIF Director Bente Schiller, and CEO Aab Pak Authority Syed Zahid Aziz at the seminar on wastewater treatment, fostering collaboration for a cleaner and sustainable future.
Project Director Kamran Raza Kahlon provided a comprehensive update on the progress and goals of the project, which received widespread appreciation from participants. The seminar served as a platform to emphasize the far-reaching benefits of wastewater treatment for public health, resource sustainability, and climate resilience.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Joint Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division Farah Farooq, CEO of Aab Pak Authority Syed Zahid Aziz, urban experts from the Asian Development Bank, and representatives from WASA offices in Lahore, Multan, Gujranwala, and Quetta.
The seminar concluded with the presentation of Faisalabad souvenirs to the distinguished guests by DG FDA Muhammad Asif Chaudhry and Project Director Kamran Kahlon, marking a significant step forward in fostering partnerships for environmental sustainability.
