By Asghar Ali Mubarak
In a determined bid to combat the escalating challenge of smog in Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken significant steps to address this pressing environmental issue while promoting public health. Her recent directives to concerned departments and commissioners reflect a proactive approach, emphasizing that collective action is vital in this struggle. The urgency of the situation is palpable, particularly in Rawalpindi, where immediate measures are necessary to prevent a worsening scenario similar to that of Lahore. During a recent Diwali event, Chief Minister Nawaz announced plans to reach out to her counterpart in Indian Punjab to foster joint efforts aimed at smog reduction. Her assertion that smog transcends political boundaries and poses a human problem highlights the need for cooperative strategies.
The pernicious nature of smog knows no borders; its toxic effects and environmental degradation are felt on both sides of the Punjab region. Thus, a collaborative response is essential if Pakistan is to mount an effective counteroffensive against this persistent threat. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the provincial government has officially declared smog a disaster under Section 3 of the Punjab National Climate Act of 1958. This declaration empowers deputy commissioners across the province to take necessary actions to mitigate smog’s impact, granting them the authority to implement localized relief measures. In addressing farmers at a ceremony in Kala Shah Kaku, Nawaz reiterated the importance of collective responsibility, acknowledging that agricultural practices, particularly in Indian Punjab, contribute significantly to the smog crisis.
The prevalence of smog—a toxic blend of fog and pollution—has severe implications for daily life in Punjab, leading to traffic accidents, health crises, and widespread respiratory issues. Factors contributing to this climatic condition include reduced air pressure, humidity, and particularly the smoke generated by construction activities and industrial emissions in Lahore. Additionally, the annual practice of crop burning in both Pakistani and Indian plains exacerbates the pollution, creating a cyclical problem that demands urgent attention. While Nawaz’s administration is taking steps to address smog, there remains a critical need for a comprehensive environmental policy akin to those implemented in India and China. Such measures should not only aim to mitigate pollution but also educate the public on health precautions during periods of elevated smog levels.
The Department of Environment Protection Punjab has already issued alerts regarding the deteriorating air quality in Lahore, indicating that pollution levels have reached alarming heights, exacerbated by crop burning across the border. Current reports suggest that Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) has surpassed acceptable limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO), with readings climbing as high as 1,067. Such levels categorize the air as extremely hazardous, raising urgent health concerns for the city’s residents. The influx of polluted air from India, driven by prevailing winds, underscores the interconnected nature of environmental challenges faced by both countries. The provincial government’s response has included a crackdown on violations of smog-related regulations, with numerous arrests made for burning crop residues and operating polluting vehicles.
Despite these efforts, the effectiveness of such measures hinges on sustained political will and community engagement. The IG Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, has emphasized the need for a rigorous anti-smog strategy, particularly targeting excessive emissions from vehicles and industries. As Punjab grapples with the complexities of smog, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s commitment to collaborative efforts, both locally and with Indian authorities, is a positive development. However, for meaningful change to occur, it is imperative that all stakeholders—from government officials to citizens—recognize their role in combating this environmental crisis. Only through united action can Punjab hope to overcome the smog challenge and protect the health and well-being of its population.
(The writer is a senior journalist covering various beats, can be reached at news@metro-morning.com)
