Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced plans to reach out to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab, aiming to address the critical smog issue affecting both regions.
Speaking at a Diwali celebration in Lahore, she stressed the importance of diplomatic dialogue with India to tackle the growing environmental crisis, framing it as a humanitarian issue beyond politics.
The event, held at 90 Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam on October 30, 2024, welcomed over 1,400 Hindu families, with Maryam Nawaz distributing Rs 15,150 checks to support their Diwali festivities. The celebration featured vibrant lights and Rangoli patterns, underscoring Diwali’s cultural importance.
Diplomats from the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries attended, highlighting the significance of international relations and community inclusivity.
Maryam Nawaz warmly engaged with attendees, inviting female diplomats on stage and sharing traditional sweets, fostering unity among participants.
In her remarks, the Chief Minister highlighted the need for cooperation in combating smog, stating, “The smog crisis transcends politics; it is a human issue that both Punjabs must tackle together.”
She stressed the importance of collaboration to counter the environmental challenges impacting the health and welfare of citizens in both regions.
Maryam Nawaz also announced several initiatives to support minority communities in Punjab, including special identity cards, virtual police stations for addressing grievances, and neighborhood development projects.
Expressing her commitment to environmental action, she mentioned plans to formally reach out to her counterpart in Indian Punjab to discuss potential joint measures against smog.
“I am considering writing to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab regarding the smog issue,” she said, reflecting her proactive stance on pursuing solutions through diplomatic channels.
At the event’s close, Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed her dedication to inclusive governance, ensuring that all communities in Punjab receive necessary support and resources.
Earlier today, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan called a special session to discuss Lahore’s escalating smog crisis.
With air pollution reaching critical levels, the Speaker emphasized the urgency of addressing the region’s deteriorating air quality.
Previously, Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb announced the shutdown of four industrial units in Lahore for not implementing emission control measures.
The Punjab Environment Protection Department inspected 941 vehicles, fining 234 for smoke emissions with a total of Rs503,000 and impounding 72 vehicles.
Maryam Aurangzeb highlighted that CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed strict measures against pollution and smog.
Face Masks Mandatory in Smog-Impacted Lahore
Due to Lahore’s worsening air quality, authorities have made face masks compulsory for residents. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached hazardous levels, with a peak of 520 and an average of 198 reported on Tuesday.
CM Maryam Nawaz instructed relevant departments to enforce environmental regulations rigorously. To mitigate the smog crisis, around 2,500 vehicles with faulty engines were grounded, 469 factories were sealed, and brick kilns were demolished.
Additionally, law enforcement registered 318 FIRs against those burning straw and crop residues, resulting in multiple arrests. These steps aim to improve air quality and safeguard public health in the region
