Balochistan Programme and its activities and ongoing projects in Balochistan. He also spoke on air and water pollution, with special reference to groundwater. Another expert from IUCN, Dr. Najam Khurshid described the Biodiversity and Ecosystem of Balochistan. He also shared his knowledge of the Wetlands, Protected areas and Forests of Balochistan.

On the second day Ms. Ishrat, Director of NGO Root works highlighted the gender issues in Balochistan and its role that could be helpful in conservation of nature and natural resources.

Huma Ikramullah provided a chronological overview on the development of Environmental Legislation in Pakistan, with regards to the various international conventions to protect environment.

Barrister Jamshed Malik, a prominent lawyer of Balochistan, discussed the various environmental legal issues in the province. He quoted relevant examples in this regard.

Mr. Jawad Hasan, Advocate High Court, spoke at length about public interest litigation and environment, and cited some breakthrough historical cases undertaken in Pakistan’s history.

Mr. Hasan gave an overview to the Constitution of PEPA, the functions and powers of EPAs, the set up of Environmental Tribunals, the system of appealing to the Environmental Tribunals and the powers of these tribunals.

While reflecting their views, the participants identified the need for more such workshops for Govt. officials so that various govt. agencies related to environmental protection in Pakistan could operate more efficiently and exercise their powers more effectively. Speaking at the closing of proceedings, Justice Saleem Akhtar appreciated the interest of the participants and IUCN’s efforts.

This workshop was of the third of its kind, the previous ones being organized for lawyers and NGO’s of Balochistan. This series has contributed considerably to people’s understanding of PEPA 97 and environmental legislation in Pakistan and specifically Balochistan.