Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Seeks Collaboration with India to Combat Smog Crisis

PAK-IND-(Special Correspondent): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expressed her desire to collaborate with India to tackle the critical issue of smog. Speaking at a Diwali celebration in Lahore, she underscored the need for diplomatic efforts, emphasizing that both Indian and Pakistani Punjab must join forces to develop effective solutions.

In her speech, Chief Minister Nawaz highlighted the importance of unity among all citizens, declaring, “Without distinction, we are all Pakistanis.” She extended her wishes to the Hindu community on Diwali and reaffirmed her commitment to safeguarding minority rights, noting that minorities are a source of national pride.

Maryam Nawaz revealed plans to introduce a minority card that will grant eligible individuals 10,500 rupees. Furthermore, she announced that 1,400 families would receive a holiday bonus of 15,000 rupees each for Diwali, reiterating the government’s aim to double the budget for minority welfare.

Regarding the smog crisis, she framed it as a humanitarian issue rather than a political one and expressed her intention to write to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab to promote cooperation on this pressing concern.

Lahore’s air quality has deteriorated significantly, with the city becoming the world’s most polluted, recording an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 707 on Sunday. An AQI above 301 is classified as hazardous, underscoring the severity of the situation.

In related news, the Lahore High Court has issued a formal order concerning a new petition aimed at addressing smog. The court has requested responses from the Environment Department and other relevant parties.

During the hearing, Justice Shahid Karim reviewed the petition submitted by the Judicial Activism Panel, which argued that ensuring a clean environment falls under the government’s obligations as outlined in the 26th constitutional amendment. The court acknowledged the connection between smog and fundamental human rights and adjourned the hearing until the relevant departments provide their responses.

Follow us on our social media platforms here: Twitter  WHATSAPP CHANNEL FACEBOOK PAGE