LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has proposed a “smog diplomacy” initiative with India to address dangerously high levels of air pollution affecting both sides of the Punjab region.
Speaking at a Diwali gathering in Lahore, she highlighted the pressing need for collaboration, noting, “Smog is not a political but a humanitarian issue. I am considering writing a letter to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab.”
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the shared air quality crisis requires joint action, stating, “The air doesn’t recognize borders between our two countries; it’s impossible to fight smog unless both Punjabs take steps together.”
Senior Punjab minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has instructed officials to draft a letter to the Chief Minister of Delhi. “Pollution can only be controlled through coordinated efforts,” Aurangzeb added.
As part of the provincial government’s efforts, a “Green Lockdown” will be implemented in selected areas of Lahore to mitigate smog levels. Additionally, the government plans to introduce 300 electric buses to curb vehicular emissions, enforce vehicle fitness certifications, and dismantle illegal brick kilns.
Notably, Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 700 last Sunday, a level considered severely harmful to health.
