ISLAMABAD: The Punjab government plans to discourage weddings during November and December, the peak smog months, as part of its efforts to combat worsening air pollution in the province.
This measure was revealed during a Lahore High Court (LHC) hearing on petitions regarding the smog crisis. Punjab Advocate General Khalid Ishaq explained that the move aims to reduce pollution caused by event-related activities, which are believed to significantly contribute to deteriorating air quality.
Justice Shahid Karim, who presided over the hearing, stressed the importance of a comprehensive, long-term anti-smog policy to address Lahore’s escalating smog crisis. He urged the government to implement a 10-year plan while criticizing the underutilization of offers from Chinese experts who had agreed to assist Pakistan with pollution control measures two years ago.
The court also highlighted other major pollution sources, including Speedo buses, which emit large amounts of smoke in urban areas. Justice Karim insisted on immediate and sustained efforts to tackle smog effectively.
Advocate General Ishaq added that significant funds from the provincial budget are being directed toward environmental protection and clean water projects, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the environmental crisis.
The LHC’s focus on discouraging weddings during smog season underscores the urgency of taking decisive steps to safeguard public health as Lahore continues to grapple with dangerously high pollution levels.
