Web desk: Pakistan has decided to raise the worsening cross-border smog issue with India at the international level, vowing to present evidence of cross-border environmental impact during the upcoming Cape Environment Conference.
According to reports, smog levels in Lahore and several other Punjab cities have reached alarming highs.
In response, authorities plan to highlight India’s alleged role in aggravating air pollution across the region.
Sources said the Punjab government is preparing to present data showing that at least 15 Indian cities are contributing to Pakistan’s poor air quality.
Officials claim this pollution stems largely from India’s failure to curb widespread crop residue burning. Making India a major cause of smog in both countries.
On the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the Environment Department has already begun compiling air quality data and evidence of transboundary pollution.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb will represent Pakistan at the conference. She will outline the country’s position and call for regional cooperation on environmental protection.
Speaking to the media, Aurangzeb said that while smog occurs seasonally, lasting about three months. Punjab’s situation worsens each year due to winds carrying pollutants from across the Indian border.
She added that the Maryam Nawaz-led government is taking major steps to improve the Air Quality Index (AQI).
Within the first half of October alone, Punjab launched several key initiatives, including the Punjab AQI app, an online portal, and progress on the province’s first climate observatory.
The minister urged citizens, especially children and the elderly, to wear masks during early morning hours and called for cooperation from farmers and industries.
“If everyone plays their part, we can win the battle for cleaner air,” she said.
New Rule Announced for Motorcyclists due to Smog
The Punjab government has introduced a new rule for motorcyclists as smog continues to blanket Lahore and other parts of the province.
According to the announcement, wearing face masks has been made mandatory for all motorcyclists as part of precautionary measures to tackle worsening air pollution.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb said polluted air from Indian cities, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Gurdaspur, Ludhiana, and Patiala, is drifting into Lahore. While southern districts such as Multan, Bahawalpur, and Bahawalnagar are also being affected.
She added that all construction sites have been instructed to properly cover building materials. And transporters carrying goods must ensure their loads are covered to prevent dust and emissions.
