Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced plans to write a letter to her counterpart in Indian Punjab, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to combat this environmental challenge.
Speaking at a ceremony in Lahore, she stated, "Today, there is a problem of smog in Lahore, and unless both Punjabs take joint action, we cannot effectively fight against it."
During her address, Chief Minister Nawaz congratulated the Hindu community on the festival of Diwali and announced the distribution of special cards for minority communities.
In support of the Hindu families, she presented checks worth 15,000 rupees to 1,400 families.
To further tackle the smog crisis, the Chief Minister unveiled an initiative to enhance the greenery around Lahore using modern technology. Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb revealed that a wall of trees would be constructed under the Lahore Green Master Plan.
The initiative aims to create a protective fence of trees to absorb carbon emissions and increase oxygen levels, with tagging and increased plantation efforts supported by local industries.
In addition, the Chief Minister instructed educational institutions and students to participate in the creation of a "green force."
The initiative will involve schools and universities in green projects, particularly during the upcoming three months of heightened smog. Aurangzeb also reported that two factories have been sealed and fined 200,000 rupees for contributing to air pollution.
Furthermore, three kilns and four plastic melting plants were demolished, with plans to cover these sites with tarpaulin during transportation to mitigate their environmental impact.
The CM’s comprehensive approach aims to mobilize resources across sectors to address the pressing issue of smog and improve air quality in the region.
