Researchers eager to revive exploration in Antarctic region
No independent expedition was sent after 1993 reportedly due to lack of funds
Pakistani researchers are keen to revive scientific exploration in the Antarctic region — the coldest, driest and windiest place in the world. Officials have expressed a desire to revitalise expeditions in Antarctica by Pakistani scientists in collaboration with friendly countries.
Pakistan’s Antarctic Programme started nearly three decades ago after the country sent its first expedition to the South Pole backed by the National Institute of Oceanography ( NIO) that was established in 1981 by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
In the early 1990s, “Pakistan became the first country in the Islamic world to send its expeditions to the Antarctic with its top scientists and logistic personals. It was a huge success,” said Dr. Hina Saeed Baig, Director General of NIO while talking to Gulf News. Dr Baig was among the core group of scientists and first woman to join Pakistan’s Antarctic initiative.
During 1991 and 1993, Pakistan established two scientific research stations, Jinnah Antarctic Station I and II, and an automatic weather station called Iqbal Observatory on Sor Rondane Mountain. This achievement earned Pakistan the associate membership of Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research ( SCAR) in 1992. More recently, Pakistani scientists have also participated in Chinese expeditions in Antarctica.
Future investment
No independent expedition was sent by Pakistan after 1993 reportedly due to lack of funds and the government’s attention. “Scientific research in Antarctica is a future investment for any government that offers manifold opportunities and benefits technologically, economically and even diplomatically,” explained Dr Hina Baig.
“Pakistan’s Antarctic Programme is more than just a national achievement as it offers long- term benefits, elevates country’s status and helps improve local expertise and technology.”
Pakistan became a non-consultative member of the exclusive Antarctic Treaty in 2011 that can facilitate Pakistani scientists to actively pursue their investigation in the region and develop collaborations, conduct joint expeditions and receive support from other countries involved in Antarctic research.