In a bid to address the growing smog problem in Pakistan, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine met in Islamabad on Thursday to discuss joint initiatives aimed at tackling air pollution and promoting sustainable development in the capital city.
Smog, largely caused by toxic pollutants, has recently worsened in several cities across Punjab, with Lahore and Multan bearing the brunt of the crisis. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Multan has surpassed 2,000 on two occasions, setting alarming new records for air pollution.
The Punjab government has declared an emergency in Lahore and Multan, and the effects have also been felt in Islamabad, where the air quality reached “very unhealthy” levels two weeks ago.
During their meeting, Naqvi and Benhassine agreed to form a joint task force comprising officials from the World Bank and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to develop an effective anti-smog plan, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan. Minister Naqvi stressed the urgency of the situation, highlighting that AQI levels in the federal capital had reached 271 this year.
“We must urgently implement a comprehensive anti-smog strategy before the situation worsens,” Naqvi said.
While the CDA had previously reported that the smog situation in Islamabad was under control, it called for collective efforts and improved coordination among relevant stakeholders to enhance the city’s air quality.
The discussions also covered areas of mutual interest, including expanding the electric bus service, improving sanitation, providing clean water, and upgrading slums and rural areas.
Naqvi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining Islamabad’s reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful capitals, noting ongoing initiatives such as the installation of anti-smog machines.
He expressed confidence that the collaborative efforts would lead to a cleaner and healthier environment for the city’s residents and visitors.
Benhassine, in turn, reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s sustainable development goals, including improving air quality and advancing urban development. “We are ready to work with the CDA to develop an effective anti-smog strategy,” he said, emphasizing that international standard reports would help identify and address the root causes of pollution.
The meeting was attended by the federal interior secretary, CDA chairman, Islamabad’s deputy commissioner, and other key officials.
