The Punjab Enforcement and Recovery Authority (PERA) was introduced to streamline land recovery, revenue regulation, and administrative enforcement. While its mandate appears reformist, its unchecked powers, political vulnerability, and potential for misuse risk turning it into an institutionalized tool of coercion—an official version of Gullu Butt—undermining justice and trust in governance.
This finale concludes our SDG 1–17 research series by synthesizing global insights, Pakistan’s unique challenges, and Islamic ethical principles. It calls for policy coherence, localization, and accountability as the only path from aspiration to genuine sustainable development.
Oceans cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface and are critical for regulating climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining billions of livelihoods. SDG 14 calls for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. For Pakistan, with its 1,000 km coastline along the Arabian Sea, marine pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change pose growing threats. Islamic principles of stewardship, justice, and balance provide a guiding framework for restoring the health of oceans and ensuring their benefits for future generations.
Cities are at the heart of economic growth but also at the center of inequality, congestion, and environmental degradation. SDG 11 calls for sustainable cities and communities that are inclusive, safe, resilient, and environmentally balanced. For Pakistan, rapid urbanization poses unique challenges: overpopulation in cities, housing shortages, poor infrastructure, and vulnerability to climate change. Yet, Islamic principles of just resource use, community solidarity, and urban planning provide a vision for livable and humane cities.
SDG 9 focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation. While global economies are advancing in technology, smart infrastructure, and green industries, Pakistan lags behind due to outdated systems, low investment in research, and weak industrial policy. This article examines the global significance of SDG 9, Pakistan’s challenges, and the urgent need for industrial revival rooted in Islamic ethics, economic wisdom, and strategic planning.
SDG 8 emphasizes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth with decent work opportunities for all. While the world pushes toward innovation-driven economies and formalized labor markets, Pakistan struggles with unemployment, underemployment, and dependence on informal sectors. This article examines the global significance of decent work, Pakistan’s economic dilemmas, and the need for reform grounded in Islamic ethics, structural planning, and strategic action.
SDG 7 aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. While the world is rapidly transitioning toward renewables, Pakistan continues to struggle with outdated infrastructure, poor governance, and over-reliance on imported fossil fuels. This article examines the global significance of clean energy, Pakistan’s challenges, and the need for a shift toward self-reliance and renewable sources, supported by Islamic principles and sound economic planning.