Key Takeaways
- Lahore has moved to 16th position on the global air quality index.
- Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed strict measures to control air pollution.
- Actions include monitoring brick kilns, restaurants, and vehicle emissions.
Lahore has been ranked 16th among the world’s most polluted cities, according to the global air quality index. This ranking reflects the city’s ongoing struggle with air pollution, which has prompted the Punjab Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, to implement stringent measures.
In a bid to address the issue, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the Punjab administration and departments to ensure the disposal of crop residue through modern machinery and prevent its burning. This directive is part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing air pollution during the upcoming smog season, expected to begin in November.
Meteorological experts have attributed slight fluctuations in the air quality index in Lahore, Faisalabad, and other districts of Punjab to changes in wind direction and humidity. They predict that rainfall expected next week could help reduce air pollution. However, the chief minister’s directives have ensured that all standard operating procedures (SOPs) introduced during the previous anti-smog season are being further tightened.
To combat the spread of air pollution, monitoring of brick kilns has been intensified. Action against kilns not equipped with zigzag technology has been accelerated, and strict inspections of heavy and light vehicles entering Lahore are underway, with a particular focus on checking smog emissions. The chief minister has also directed continuous monitoring of motorcycle emissions in the city and action against vehicles found contributing to pollution.
In addition to these measures, monitoring through Safe City cameras, thermal imaging, and advanced AI-based systems has been enhanced. These technologies are being used to ensure compliance with the new regulations and to identify sources of pollution more effectively.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has emphasized the importance of public cooperation during the three-month smog season. She stated, 'During the three-month smog season, the people will extend full cooperation to the actions taken by the administration and departments and together we will set a new example of success.'
The measures taken by the Punjab administration are part of a comprehensive strategy to improve air quality in Lahore. While the city continues to face challenges, the proactive approach of the chief minister and her administration offers hope for a cleaner and healthier environment.
During the three-month smog season, the people will extend full cooperation to the actions taken by the administration and departments and together we will set a new example of success.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister
