Lahore, often considered Pakistan’s cultural capital, has recently been labeled the world’s most polluted city, with a troubling Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 394. This dangerous level of air pollution poses significant health threats, including respiratory issues, eye irritation, skin infections, and difficulty breathing, affecting a large number of the city’s population.
The main contributors to Lahore’s severe smog problem are crop residue burning and emissions from industrial sources. In response, the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has introduced an ‘Anti-Smog Squad’ initiative aimed at educating farmers about alternative ways to dispose of crop waste and promoting the use of super seeders.
“Yesterday, Lahore was named the world’s most polluted city. We have launched several initiatives to tackle the issue, including plans for artificial rain in the city,” Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari announced to reporters in Lahore on Tuesday.
Smog, a combination of smoke and fog, occurs when certain polluting particles mix with cold, moist air, forming a layer close to the ground that reduces visibility and leads to health problems.
Measures to combat pollution in Pakistan include:
– Artificial Rain: Planned to help alleviate the impact of smog.
– Anti-Smog Squad: Focused on educating farmers and promoting sustainable practices.
– Environmental Education: Now part of the province’s school curriculum.
– Climate Diplomacy: Efforts to collaborate with India to tackle cross-border smog issues.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized that while these efforts will show positive results within 8-10 years, immediate action is crucial. She urged farmers to refrain from burning crop residues, which harms both agricultural output and children’s health.
Earlier this month, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz called for “climate diplomacy” with India to address smog’s impact on the province. She stressed the need for joint action, noting that stubble burning in India’s Punjab significantly affects air quality across the border due to prevailing wind patterns.
“This matter needs to be urgently discussed with India,” she added.
