ISLAMABAD, Nov 13 (NNN-APP) – Amid rising smog and air pollution in various districts of Pakistan, the country has been taking comprehensive actions, with an emphasis on ensuring effective implementation to build a healthy and clean future, according to Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal.
Expressing concern about the worsening impacts of smog in the country, the minister said, during a meeting yesterday that, smog and air pollution will lead to severe consequences, if not taken seriously, posing a risk to public health, as well as, Pakistan’s gross domestic product growth rate.
He said that, a coordinated strategy among federal and provincial institutions, academia, and other stakeholders is being devised, to tackle the issue, adding that, all institutions are working together to address the issue, while promoting environmental awareness at the public level.
Highlighting the main causes of smog and air pollution, Iqbal said that, cross-border pollution, vehicle emissions, crop burning, and urban development, are the primary culprits, adding that, the negative effects of smog on public health and daily life underlined the need for awareness campaigns, so that every citizen becomes mindful of the environment and personal practices.
Earlier yesterday, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), issued a smog advisory, saying, due to prevailing atmospheric conditions of higher humidity, low wind speed, and increased upper atmospheric pressure, smog conditions are expected to persist throughout Nov and Dec, in parts of the country.– NNN-APP
