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Making plans for an island - 27 November 2020

This island is close to Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city. It is called Bundle Island.

There aren’t any people on the island, just a few camels. Other animals live in its mangrove trees.

Arif Belgaumi is an architect who designs towns. He says the island stops storms damaging Karachi.

Belgaumi: "These islands form a barrier against storm surges and tsunamis. And their preservation is vital for the preservation of Karachi"

But Pakistan’s Prime Minister disagrees. He is planning a $50 billion home building project on Bundle Island.

Khan has warned about climate problems. He has helped green energy companies. But he says the plans will mean more jobs. This will increase government income from taxes.

Others disagree with Khan. They say Karachi will have more problems if Bundle Island is built on.

Mahera Omar produces films about the environment.

Omar: "It's the mangroves that protect us from these storms and cyclones. And the ecosystem here is essential for the livelihood of the fishermen who come here. So, this is why we, like, really need to protect it. It's, it’s only if nature thrives here, that it's good for the entire city of Karachi."