Maryam Nawaz Calls for Cross-Border Cooperation to Combat Smog Crisis in Punjab
Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Punjab, has highlighted the urgent need for collaboration with Indian Punjab to tackle the severe smog problem affecting the region. Speaking at an event in Lahore, she described the situation as a humanitarian crisis that requires joint efforts. Nawaz expressed her intention to reach out to her Indian counterpart to strengthen “smog diplomacy.” She emphasized the necessity of a “matching response” from India, similar to Pakistan’s efforts to combat the pollution.
On October 29, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 708, making it the most polluted city globally. The PM2.5 levels soared to 431 ug/m3, which is 86 times higher than the World Health Organization’s safe limit, endangering the health of millions. Private monitors reported even higher AQI levels, with readings of 953 in Gulberg and 810 near Pakistan Engineering Services.
The Environment Protection and Culture Change Department (EPCCD) questioned the reliability of private data, citing the use of lower-cost sensors by government monitors. They also admitted to a lack of comprehensive research on smog sources, with vehicular emissions estimated to contribute 40 to 80 percent of Lahore’s pollution. The city faces pollution from 4.5 million motorcycles, over a million cars, and numerous factories and brick kilns operating without emission controls.
Experts warn that Lahore’s pollution is a result of systemic environmental mismanagement, with smog persisting even in summer months. The crisis is attributed to uncontrolled vehicular emissions, outdated industrial practices, and ineffective environmental oversight, beyond just stubble burning.
Doubts Revealed
Maryam Nawaz -: Maryam Nawaz is a Pakistani politician and the daughter of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. She is involved in political activities in Pakistan.
Punjab -: Punjab is a region that is divided between two countries, India and Pakistan. Both have a state named Punjab, and they share cultural and historical ties.
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like a thick fog. It is harmful to health and is caused by pollution from vehicles, factories, and burning of crops.
Air Quality Index -: The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number used to communicate how polluted the air is. A higher number means more pollution and greater health risks.
PM2.5 -: PM2.5 refers to tiny particles in the air that are 2.5 micrometers or smaller. They can enter the lungs and cause health problems.
WHO -: WHO stands for the World Health Organization. It is a global health agency that sets guidelines for safe levels of air quality and other health standards.
Systemic mismanagement -: Systemic mismanagement means that there are ongoing problems in how things are organized and run, leading to issues like pollution not being properly controlled.