PPP Criticizes Punjab Government’s Handling of Smog Crisis, Calls for Long-Term Solutions

The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), a key ally of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has sharply criticized the Punjab government’s approach to managing the escalating smog crisis. The dense smog affecting Lahore, Multan, and surrounding regions has reached hazardous levels, disrupting daily life and flight schedules.

PPP Calls for Long-Term Solutions

PPP’s Punjab chapter general secretary, Syed Hassan Murtaza, expressed deep concerns over the government’s inability to effectively address the smog issue. He accused the authorities of offering only temporary fixes, such as closing schools and highways, which he believes will not resolve the underlying pollution problem.

Murtaza highlighted the case of a three-year-old girl who recently sought help from the Lahore High Court over smog-related health problems. In contrast, he pointed out that the Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, was abroad on a week-long visit to Geneva, raising questions about the government’s commitment to local healthcare.

Smog Linked to Crop Residue Burning

Murtaza also criticized the delay in addressing the cross-border issue of crop residue burning in Indian Punjab, which is contributing to the worsening smog levels in Pakistan’s border regions. He questioned why no diplomatic action had been taken, particularly when a letter to India’s Chief Minister had been promised as part of a collaborative effort to reduce the smog problem.

Concerns Over Artificial Rain Proposal

The PPP leader dismissed the Punjab government’s proposal to combat smog through artificial rain, calling it impractical. He urged the government to implement long-term measures to improve air quality and prioritize the health of the public.

“If the government fails to act, it will face serious public backlash,” Murtaza warned, emphasizing the urgent need for action to protect citizens from the dangerous air pollution.

Flight Disruptions Due to Smog

Meanwhile, smog-related visibility issues caused significant disruptions at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore. Several flights were delayed or diverted, including PIA flight PK280, which was redirected to Islamabad due to poor visibility, and flight PK203, which was delayed by two hours.

A spokesperson for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) explained that the airport’s landing system could only support larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 777, making it difficult to operate in adverse conditions.

Government Imposes Green Lockdowns

In an attempt to curb pollution, the Punjab government has enforced green lockdowns across public spaces in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan. This includes the closure of parks, playgrounds, zoos, museums, and historical sites to limit people’s mobility and reduce vehicle emissions.

Additionally, all public and private schools up to 12th grade have been closed until November 17 to protect students from the harmful effects of smog. Authorities have also imposed fines on vehicles emitting smoke, and markets have been instructed to close by 8:00 PM.

As the smog crisis continues to impact daily life, experts stress the need for more comprehensive and sustainable solutions to improve air quality in Punjab.