Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has underscored the importance of “climate diplomacy” with India to combat the persistent smog issue affecting the province. Speaking at a climate change event on Wednesday, she stressed the need for collaborative efforts between Indian and Pakistani Punjab to address the problem, highlighting that stubble burning in Indian Punjab significantly contributes to air quality challenges in Pakistan due to prevailing wind patterns. She called for immediate discussions with Indian authorities to tackle this pressing issue.
While noting some improvement in the Air Quality Index (AQI), the Chief Minister pointed out that smog is not limited to the months of October through February but is a year-round problem. “We must remove obstacles to environmental progress. Smog not only causes respiratory issues but can also damage eyesight,” she cautioned, recalling previous instances when severe smog conditions forced the closure of schools and offices.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that a multi-faceted approach is essential to effectively combat smog, stating, “It is vital for every home and every child to understand the importance of addressing smog. The fight against smog is crucial for the health and survival of our children.”
The Chief Minister also announced the approval of Punjab’s first Smog Action Plan during a meeting of the cabinet standing committee on smog mitigation and climate resilience. She revealed that environmental leaders would be appointed to enhance education and training in the sector.
To raise awareness, smog-related topics will be included in school curricula, and a campaign will run in schools throughout Punjab from October 15 to November 15. The CM also detailed plans for a comprehensive action strategy to reduce smog levels, including issuing warnings to brick kilns that emit black smoke, with non-compliant facilities facing demolition.
“We aim to avoid impacting anyone’s livelihood, but it is essential to take strong measures against those who are damaging the environment,” she stated. Cameras have been installed near industrial chimneys for monitoring purposes, and any smoke detected will prompt immediate notifications to the respective industries.
Additionally, she announced that one percent of the budget for any development project will be allocated for tree planting along roadways during construction and repairs. To support the next generation of environmental leaders, she proposed an increase in the monthly stipend for interns from Rs25,000 to Rs60,000.
“In the past, the environment department was overlooked. This internship is not merely a job; it is a sacred responsibility,” she asserted, reaffirming her commitment to environmental protection in Punjab.
