Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has stressed the urgent need for collaboration with Indian Punjab to address the escalating smog problem, characterizing it as a humanitarian crisis that requires joint efforts.
Speaking at an event in Lahore on Wednesday, she indicated that she might write to her Indian counterpart to reinforce her commitment to "smog diplomacy."
As air quality continues to deteriorate in the city, residents are experiencing health issues such as burning eyes, throat irritation, and persistent coughs.
Maryam has previously raised concerns about this issue, as both Pakistan and India face dangerously high pollution levels due to seasonal smog.
She reiterated that smog is a humanitarian challenge, not a political one, and called for collective action to effectively combat it.
"If both Punjabs do not come together, we cannot tackle smog," she asserted.
It is pertinent to mention that in the colder months, pollution levels rise significantly, with Lahore and Delhi frequently cited as some of the most polluted cities worldwide, according to various reports.
As temperatures drop, pollution gets trapped closer to the ground, resulting in an increase in respiratory issues and filling hospitals with patients.
A recent report highlighted that rising air pollution could shorten life expectancy in South Asia—one of the world’s most polluted regions—by over five years per person.
As of this morning, Lahore has been reported to have the worst air quality, currently ranked second to Delhi, which is in the hazardous category.
Punjab govt to launch Minority Card on December 20
Meanwhile, the Punjab CM announced that the provincial government will introduce a ‘Minority Card’ on December 20, designed to assist individuals with limited financial means.
This marks the first official confirmation of the initiative after a prior mention of the government's contemplation of such a programme last month.
“Members of all minority communities in Punjab, particularly those living in poverty, will receive Rs10,500 through the Minority Card,” Maryam said.
“We will start with 50,000 beneficiaries, and with God's blessing, we aim to not only increase the number of recipients and families in the coming year but also the amount of financial aid provided,” she said, receiving applause from the audience.
In her remarks, Maryam Nawaz also recounted her recent visit to Kartarpur, expressing appreciation for the warm welcome she received from the Sikh community.
The Punjab CM assured that any minority individuals who feel unsafe can contact the police helpline at 15 for help.
Maryam acknowledged past incidents involving minorities that had caused her significant concern, stating that minor misunderstandings had led to serious conflicts.
“Since minorities are few, it is our responsibility to create a secure Pakistan and a safe Punjab for them, where they can live freely without fear and feel that this is their country, with every right to belong,” she stressed.
Maryam highlighted that ensuring the safety of vulnerable groups is not only her constitutional duty as chief minister but also a moral obligation.
Additionally, she announced a Diwali gift of Rs15,000 for 1,400 families across Punjab.
“Let us strive to live together in peace and harmony under one flag. Once again, I wish you all a Happy Diwali,” the Punjab CM concluded.
