“Budget 2025: Punjab Sets Rs15bn Aside for Environment and Climate Change”

LAHORE: The Punjab government has proposed a Rs15 billion allocation for environment and climate change projects in its 2025 budget, signaling a stronger push to tackle air pollution, rising temperatures, and other climate-related challenges across the province.

Unveiling the budget in the Punjab Assembly on Thursday, Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman said the government is prioritizing sustainable development and climate resilience. “We’re committed to protecting our environment and preparing for the future. This funding is a big step in that direction,” he said

The allocation is a marked increase from last year’s outlay, and will primarily be directed towards afforestation projects, the expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, improvement of air quality monitoring systems, and climate adaptation initiatives in vulnerable districts.

Green Punjab Programme

A large chunk of the funds will go towards the “Green Punjab” initiative — wide-ranging plans to plant millions of trees, restore natural habitats, and expand green spaces in urban centres. The government says it aims to plant over 50 million trees in the next fiscal year alone.

Around Rs3.5bn has been earmarked for improving air quality monitoring in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Rawalpindi, where pollution levels regularly exceed safe limits. Officials say the move is aimed at better tracking smog and taking more targeted action during peak pollution months.

Combating Smog, Promoting Renewables

The budget also includes Rs.2bn for smog-control measures — including promoting zigzag technology in brick kilns, encouraging cleaner fuels in industry, and tightening vehicle emissions standards.

Another Rs1.2bn is planned for solar energy and renewable power initiatives, particularly in off-grid and rural areas. The projects will focus on solar irrigation systems and small-scale electrification in parts of South Punjab hit hardest by climate change.

Climate Resilience in Agriculture

Punjab’s agriculture sector often hit by extreme weather is also getting attention. The government has allocated Rs4bn to support climate-smart farming, including drought-resistant crops, water-saving irrigation, and training for farmers on new techniques.

Environmentalists have cautiously welcomed the move. “It’s a step in the right direction. But we’ve seen good plans fail in the past due to weak implementation. This time, there needs to be follow-through,” said Dr Maria Khan, a climate researcher at Punjab University.

Long-Term Plan

The government says it plans to work with international organizations, researchers, and civil society to ensure the money is well spent. Minister Rehman said the Rs15bn allocation is just one part of a broader, long-term climate strategy for the province.