The city of Lahore in Pakistan’s Punjab state has been declared the most polluted city in the world, with an air quality index of 394. The whole city is covered in heavy fog, and the situation is that there is smoke everywhere. Amid discussions on the air quality report, the Punjab government plans to carry out artificial rainfall to reduce smog. Surprisingly, the chief minister here blamed India.
Earlier this month, Maryam Nawaz, chief minister of Pakistan’s Punjab state, spoke of an initiative to engage in “climate diplomacy” with India. The impact of stubble burning in the Indian state of Punjab also extends across the border, he said. He said, “This issue should be raised with India immediately.” However, as of press time, India has not responded to this.
Also read: Agriculture ministry takes big action against stubble burning, 24 officials and employees suspended in Haryana
People are facing health problems
AQI represents different levels of pollution, with an AQI above 100 considered hazardous to health, and above 150 falling into the “very hazardous” category. Generally speaking, burning straw in fields can quickly worsen air quality. Due to the dangerous smog, locals face health problems such as coughs, respiratory illnesses, eye irritations and more.
Establish an “anti-smog team”
Talking about this issue, Punjab Information Minister Ajma Bokhari said that the government has taken many measures to solve the problem and has currently formulated a plan for artificial rainfall in the city. The Punjab government led by Maryam Nawaz has formed an “anti-smog squad” that will visit smog-affected areas. The groups will raise farmers’ awareness of the dangers of stubble burning, promote the use of super drills and introduce alternative methods of handling stubble.
Also read: Poison starts dissolving in Delhi air! Incidents of straw burning continue to rise, and AQI continues to rise
A senior minister of Punjab Province said that the positive effects of measures to deal with smog will start to show in 8 to 10 years. Environmental protection has been included in the province’s teaching syllabus, and practical measures to combat smog have been emphasized.
