Lahore, October 30, 2024 – Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, has urged both Pakistani and Indian Punjab regions to unite against the shared environmental threat of smog. Speaking at a Diwali event in Lahore, she emphasized the need for “climate diplomacy” between the two Punjabs to address worsening air quality on both sides of the border.
“We need diplomacy with India on Lahore’s smog issue. I’m considering writing to the Punjab Chief Minister in India, Bhagwant Mann, highlighting this as a humanitarian, not just political, concern,” she said. Maryam stressed the importance of a cooperative approach, stating, “The winds don’t recognize borders,” as both regions continue to struggle with pollution impacting millions.
Her statements echoed a previous call on October 10 for collaboration with India on climate issues. Last week, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb called on Lahore residents to “declare war on smog,” noting that a significant portion of smog originates from across the border. The impact is felt acutely, as Lahore recently ranked as the most polluted city worldwide, recording an AQI of 708, just ahead of New Delhi’s 196 points today.
Meanwhile, in Punjab, both enforcement and penalties have been heightened, with over 70 arrests linked to environmental violations like stubble burning and use of smoke-emitting vehicles. Indian officials are also taking similar actions in Haryana, with several arrests for illegal paddy stubble burning.
Punjab Government to Launch ‘Minority Card’ Initiative
At the same event, CM Maryam announced the launch of a new ‘Minority Card’ program, set for December 20, to provide financial aid to resource-limited minority members across Punjab. Initially, 50,000 beneficiaries will receive Rs10,500 each, with plans for expansion next year.
Reflecting on her recent Kartarpur visit, she thanked the Sikh community for their hospitality and underscored her commitment to minority safety. The chief minister stated that all minorities in Punjab should feel secure and that her government would take steps to ensure a safe, inclusive environment.
Concluding with a Diwali gift announcement, Maryam shared that 1,400 families across Punjab would receive Rs15,000 each as a festive gesture, extending her wishes for peace and unity among communities.
