Punjab government on Wednesday decided to ink a cross-border one-on-one agreement with India to fight against smog in a bid to improve the air quality index.

Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb directed to scrutinize factories contributing to air pollution. The minister chaired a meeting to digitize the brick kiln industrial system for a better air quality index.

Addressing the meeting, Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb stated that Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif is concerned about implementing practical measures at the grassroots to combat smog.

A three-month timeline has been set for the installation and monitoring of emission controllers in divisional industrial zones.

Maryam Aurangzeb emphasized that quality of life is everyone's right, and crackdowns should be imposed on those contributing to air pollution.

Under the environmentally friendly vision of the chief minister, directives have been issued to implement a mechanism of monitoring crop harvesting using machines instead of burning, to avoid crop burning.

The senior minister mentioned that a new app will be introduced to raise awareness about anti-smog campaigns.

Ban on plastic bags

Punjab senior minister said that starting from June 6, plastic bags will be banned under the chief minister's directive.

“Industries complying with international environmental standards will be honored with CM Green Office Awards,” she said.

She also directed concerned officials to establish Environment Climate Change Councils in all educational institutions to groom environment ambassadors among students.

Furthermore, a task has been assigned to implement practical measures for the management of hospital waste.

Comprehensive plan sought from fisheries dept to enact CM's vision

Under the special directive of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has sought a comprehensive plan from the Department of Fisheries, to enhance quality, yield, and profitability that would create employment and income opportunities, in addition to strengthening food security.

Chairing a pivotal meeting, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb outlined the imperative for strategic planning to propel fish trading to new heights across the province. The meeting focused on formulating strategies to augment fish farming and shrimp production, aligning closely with the visionary objectives set forth by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz.

During the deliberations, a multifaceted approach was emphasized, encompassing diverse models, precise timelines, meticulous costing, and a thorough examination of potential benefits and drawbacks for forthcoming projects. It was underscored that data-driven decision-making would be paramount, with an emphasis on leveraging successful practices from neighboring countries such as Singapore and the UAE.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb reiterated the unwavering commitment to progress and excellence in every sector, echoing the resolute mission of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif. It was resolved that collaborative sessions would be convened with international experts and local stakeholders to harness collective expertise and drive increased production in fish farming and trading.

Emphasizing innovation under Maryam Nawaz Sharif's visionary directive, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb unveiled plans for groundbreaking projects aimed at enhancing shrimp production. The upcoming 'Development of Shrimp Aquaculture in Saline and Brackish Areas Of Punjab' Project epitomizes this visionary approach, with a focus on optimizing agricultural and ecological considerations. The Shrimp farming will be conducted on infertile, saline, and brackish lands.

Consultations and technical assistance will be sought from leading nations in aquaculture, ensuring the adoption of international best practices to expedite progress. Moreover, the initiative underscores the commitment to bolster Pakistan's foreign exchange earnings while fostering sustainable economic growth.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb highlighted that these initiatives are poised to generate employment, elevate income levels, and unlock entrepreneurial opportunities. By adhering to a comprehensive plan, the fisheries sector will not only realize its potential but also contribute significantly to strengthening food security and uplifting the economic well-being of the populace as per the vision of CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz, she said.

Marriyum Aurangzeb said that the unwavering resolve of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, coupled with the strategic foresight was set to herald a new era of prosperity and progress in the fisheries sector, charting a course towards a brighter future for Punjab.