Pakistan to raise crucial issue with India through diplomatic channels
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In a pivotal development, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has pledged to raise the pressing smog issue, triggered by crop residue burning, with India through diplomatic channels.
This announcement came following a meeting of the Punjab cabinet, presided over by PM Anwaarul Haq Kakar.
Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi informed the gathering that the primary cause of the smog engulfing Lahore is the burning of crop residues in Indian Punjab, as reported by the state news agency.
The cabinet meeting also involved comprehensive briefings on the proactive measures undertaken by the interim Punjab government across various sectors, including health, transportation, education, and more. Notably, innovative projects like biogas generation are currently in progress within the province to bolster the energy sector.
Lahore, in particular, is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, as the city's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recently reached an alarming 483, positioning it as the most polluted city globally.
The persistent smog, which has shrouded Lahore for several days, escalated on Sunday, leading to a surge in complaints related to breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and reduced visibility on the roads.
The local Met Office has issued a weather warning, attributing the smog to a combination of toxic elements, including nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and various aerosols, arising from a cold-high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere. This situation underscores the urgency of addressing the smog issue through diplomatic channels to mitigate its far-reaching health and environmental impacts.
