Report & Photo by GR Junejo from Mithi
MITHI: The Grow Green Network has called on the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to cease funding fossil fuel projects in Pakistan, urging the bank to align its investments with the country’s climate commitments. This demand was made during a public forum held by Sukaar Foundation at Mithi, in collaboration with Indus Consortium, which works on environmental, humanitarian, and development initiatives.
The public forum highlighted the detrimental environmental impact of the Jamshoro Power Company Limited (JPCL) plant, urging the ADB to take responsibility for the damage caused. Participants demanded that the bank develop a framework for the early retirement of the JPCL plant and prioritize investments in renewable energy.
The event drew participation from political party activists, civil society representatives, media personnel, and the general public. Key speakers included Shahid Shah, Teerath Kumar – Program Head Sukaar Foundation, Neel Amber Dhanani Program Manager SIF, Adv Ashique Ali Bajeer , Adv Rafique Hingorjo and others, who discussed the urgent need for reforms in Pakistan’s energy sector.
Speakers emphasized the challenges facing the country’s energy supply, including its heavy reliance on costly imported fuels and inefficiencies in the power system. In 2023, Pakistan faced an energy shortfall of approximately 6,000 MW during peak seasons, leading to prolonged power outages. The country’s generation capacity stands at 45,605 MW, yet it remains vulnerable due to transmission and distribution issues.
The public forum also called on the Pakistani government to invest in flood-resilient infrastructure to empower communities and bridge the $19.1 billion funding gap required for the rehabilitation of flood-affected areas. Participants rejected further expansion of LNG and fossil fuel dependence, instead advocating for energy independence through solar and wind power investments, especially for marginalized communities without access to the national grid.
Speakers further pointed out that Pakistan’s energy sector remains burdened by circular debt, which grew to over PKR 2.6 trillion ($9 billion) in 2023. Without major reforms, investment in infrastructure, and a shift toward renewable energy, the country’s energy security will remain compromised.
The forum ended with a strong call to action for multilateral development banks (MDBs) to address the critical funding gaps and for Pakistan to accelerate its transition toward a sustainable, renewable energy future.