Despite the escalating smog crisis in Lahore, hopes for artificial rain to clear the hazardous air have been dashed due to a lack of consensus between the World Bank and Punjab’s interim government. The caretaker government, in a bid to combat the severe pollution, had proposed artificial rain as a solution on November 17. However, recent statements from Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman reveal that World Bank officials are not on board with this particular strategy.
Secretary Zaman addressed the media, stating, “We [the government] and the World Bank are working together to address the issues of smog and environmental pollution.” He went on to share that the government has opted for an alternative approach by introducing electric buses to replace Qingqi rickshaws, a move aimed at curbing air pollution.
“The government is importing 30 electric buses—providing smoke-free travel—after which Qingqi rickshaws will be banned in the city,” he declared.
Despite this shift in strategy, Secretary Zaman highlighted challenges faced by the government in its battle against pollution. “Smog testing equipment is not satisfactory, and concerned departments have discrepancies in data related to smog,” he explained. In response, a collaborative study with the World Bank has been initiated to devise comprehensive measures to eliminate smog.
However, in a somewhat contradictory move, the minister has instructed the formation of a working group to oversee the artificial rain initiative by November 28 or 29. This decision suggests a lingering commitment to the initial plan, despite the World Bank’s reluctance.
As Lahore grapples with hazardous air quality, the standoff between the government and the World Bank raises concerns about the timely implementation of effective measures to alleviate the smog crisis and safeguard public health.
