Lahore, October 10, 2024 – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has called for initiating “climate diplomacy” with India to tackle the growing smog issue affecting the province.
Speaking at a climate change event on Wednesday, she emphasized the need for joint efforts between Indian and Pakistani Punjab to address the problem. “Stubble burning in Indian Punjab significantly impacts our air quality due to wind patterns. This issue must be urgently discussed with India,” she said.
While noting that the Air Quality Index (AQI) has shown some improvement, the CM pointed out that smog persists not only from October to February but throughout the year. She stressed the importance of removing barriers to environmental progress, warning that smog has previously forced the closure of schools and offices due to its impact on health, particularly causing respiratory issues and eye damage.
“Smog cannot be eliminated with a single solution; it requires a comprehensive, collective effort. Every household and every child needs to understand the urgency of ending smog, as it is a matter of our children’s health and future,” she stated.
The CM highlighted the need for broader public awareness, announcing that smog education would be integrated into the school curriculum. Additionally, a province-wide smog awareness campaign will run from October 15 to November 15.
Maryam Nawaz also revealed an end-to-end action plan to reduce smog, which includes strict warnings and demolition of brick kilns emitting black smoke. Surveillance has been intensified with cameras installed near industrial chimneys, and a monitoring control room has been set up to respond swiftly when high levels of smoke are detected. Digital inspections using drones and CCTV are also in place.
To further environmental efforts, the CM announced that one percent of all development project funds would be allocated to tree plantation, particularly along roads during construction and repairs. She also increased the monthly stipend for interns in the environmental sector from Rs 25,000 to Rs 60,000.
“The environment department was neglected in the past, but this internship is not just a job—it’s a sacred responsibility,” she asserted, emphasizing the significance of the role.
Meanwhile, the first comprehensive smog action plan for Punjab was approved during a cabinet meeting on smog mitigation and climate resilience, chaired by the CM.
