SAARC level Climate Change Journalist Forum formed
Source: My Republica
Date: 6 Feb 2023
The South Asian Climate Change Journalist’s Forum (SACCJF) has been established to address the escalating climate crisis in the South Asian region. The forum, comprising journalists from SAARC countries, elected an 18-member Executive Committee and finalized its constitution and procedures. Asish Gupta (India) and Karamot Ullah Biplob (Bangladesh) were elected President and Executive President, respectively. Three Vice Presidents, a Secretary General, Assistant Secretary-General, and Treasurer were also elected. The forum made its debut at COP 27 in Egypt and plans to hold a general assembly soon. It is seeking recognition from SAARC and will have national chapters representing member countries.
South Asian countries endorse Sri Lanka’s proposal to set up climate change university
Source: Daily News
Date: 7 Feb 2023
Bhutan Education and Skills Development Minister Jai Bir Rai called on Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena at Temple Trees yesterday and held detailed discussions on bilateral relations, potential for investments and regional issues. The Prime Minister briefed the visiting Bhutanese Minister about President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s proposal to set up a climate change university in Sri Lanka and the Minister said it was a brilliant move and it would benefit all the countries in South Asia and elsewhere.
Millions face threat of flooding from glacial lakes
Source: BBC News
Date: 7 Feb 2023
Up to 15 million people face risk of catastrophic flooding from glacial lakes which could burst their natural dams at any moment, a new study finds. The study led by Newcastle University is the first global attempt to map potential hotspots for such floods. As the climate warms, glaciers retreat and meltwater collects, forming lakes. People living in India, Pakistan, Peru and China account for over half of those at risk. In Asia, around one million people live within just 10km of a glacial lake.