Govt making long-term policy to control smog, says Kh Salman

LAHORE : Provincial Health Minister and Chairman Cabinet Committee on Disaster Management Khawaja Salman Rafique said that Punjab government is taking all possible measures to prevent smog and designing long-term policies to eliminate this menace.

The provincial health minister said this during visit to Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Saturday.

He said that citizens are being instructed to be careful through print, electronic and social media. Smog can be avoided by taking precautionary measures. People are requested to follow the lockdown, he added.

The provincial minister visited the PDMA control room and reviewed the smog situation. PDMA Director Zaheer Liaquat gave a detailed briefing to the provincial minister about the fog and smog situation. The situation of fog and smog is expected to persist for the next few days. PDMA Punjab is conducting an awareness campaign to prevent smog at the public level.

CBD projects halted

The Central Business District (CBD), in response to the escalating environmental crisis posed by thick smog, has taken decisive action to temporarily suspend all construction activities on its projects within Lahore.

This measure aligns with directives issued by the Lahore High Court and the Punjab govt, reflecting a unified commitment to address deteriorating air quality and safeguard public health. CBD Punjab CEO Imran Amin highlighted the authority's proactive role in tackling environmental challenges, stating, "As a forward-thinking and environmentally conscious authority, CBD Punjab fully endorses the Punjab govt's robust measures to combat smog. The temporary suspension of construction activities is a necessary step to curb pollution levels, and we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering a cleaner and healthier environment for Lahore's residents." He said CBD Punjab's initiative to halt construction underscores its dedication to environmental sustainability and community welfare.