The current smog situation presents a notable improvement compared to January 2023. Previously topping the smog index, Lahore has now descended to the 54th position. This shift can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the influence of rainfall and government initiatives. Among the most effective governmental measures has been the enforcement of Section 144 in the city, alongside restrictions on smog-emitting vehicles and crop residue burning, practices that continue to be upheld. Further steps in this direction will be considered with an eye on future smog scenarios.
These views were shared by Punjab's Information and Culture Minister, Amir Mir, during a press conference at the Directorate General Public Relations Department following today's Punjab Cabinet meeting. Minister Mir informed the media representatives that, in accordance with the directives of Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Syed Mohsin Naqvi, district administration and price control teams have been mobilized to transfer the benefits of the Rs 40 per liter reduction in petrol prices to the public. It is anticipated that, in the coming days, prices of essential commodities such as flour, milk, and rice will see significant reductions. Responding to questions from journalists, the provincial minister affirmed that the Punjab government will pursue legal avenues to reinstate the commissioner's authority to impose fines on wholesalers, a measure aimed at curbing inflation.
When queried about the implementation of long-term smog control strategies, Amir Mir stated that the caretaker government is deploying every available resource within its limited timeframe to ensure compliance. He further emphasized that decisions regarding permissions for specific political gatherings are influenced by the events of May 9, asserting that any determinations pertaining to political meetings fall within the purview of the courts. Present alongside Punjab Information and Culture Minister Amir Mir were Provincial Minister for School Education Mansoor Qadir, Provincial Minister for Transport Ibrahim Murad, and Provincial Minister for Environment Protection Bilal Afzal.
Mansoor Qadir apprised the press conference attendees that due to the improved smog situation, the decision regarding additional holidays in schools on Wednesdays has been postponed. The possibility of a mid-week break will be evaluated on a weekly basis during Monday meetings.
Ibrahim Murad and Bilal Afzal updated the media on departmental efforts to combat smog. They confirmed that the transport department is rigorously enforcing the closure of vehicles without valid fitness certificates, showing no leniency towards smoke-emitting vehicles. In light of reduced petrol prices, discussions with transporters are underway to lower bus fares. In the coming days, passengers traveling between Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujarat, and Rawalpindi can expect significant fare reductions.
Bilal Afzal informed the media that the Smog Rules of 2023 have been implemented in Punjab to tackle the issue. This empowers the Punjab Environment Protection Department to take action against industrial units in violation of these regulations. He highlighted that local transport and industry primarily contribute to smog, with smoke from India accounting for 20% of the problem. Bilal Afzal added that the Environment Protection Department conducts a systematic smog study weekly, revealing an increase in the air quality index every Monday and Friday, and a decrease on the weekends.