The World Bank has allocated $300 million to support Pakistan’s efforts to combat smog, with a focus on improving air quality in Punjab.
According to the lender, the funds will contribute to the Punjab Smog Mitigation Action Plan, aiming to reduce air pollution levels by 35%. Over the next decade, the initiative is expected to benefit approximately 13 million people.
The project will emphasize awareness campaigns to discourage crop residue burning, a major contributor to smog. Additionally, 600 electric buses will be introduced to Punjab’s public transport system to promote cleaner mobility.
Punjab’s Smog Crisis
Lahore and several other cities in Punjab faced severe smog conditions last November, despite government efforts to curb pollution.
Poor air quality forced authorities to close multiple sections of the motorway due to low visibility. In response to worsening conditions, the government implemented a partial lockdown in Lahore and Multan, restricting movement three days a week.
Schools in heavily affected districts remained closed until November 24 as air pollution reached hazardous levels, posing serious health risks.
Lahore consistently ranked among the most polluted cities worldwide, prompting urgent measures from authorities. The city remained engulfed in smog for days, primarily due to emissions from low-grade diesel, smoke from seasonal agricultural burning, and winter weather patterns that trap pollutants.
