Islamabad – Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine met on Thursday to address the worsening smog crisis and explore sustainable development measures for the capital. The meeting, held in Islamabad, emphasized collaborative efforts to combat air pollution and enhance urban development.
The discussion comes as Punjab faces an unprecedented smog crisis, with cities like Lahore and Multan severely affected. Multan’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recently surpassed 2,000 on two occasions, setting alarming records, while Lahore and Islamabad have also experienced hazardous air quality levels.
To address these challenges, Naqvi and Benhassine announced the formation of a joint team comprising World Bank experts and the Capital Development Authority (CDA). This team will work on a comprehensive anti-smog strategy for the federal capital.
Minister Naqvi highlighted the critical need for immediate action, citing Islamabad’s AQI reaching a concerning 271 this year. “Before the situation becomes hazardous, we must urgently implement a comprehensive anti-smog strategy,” he urged.
Earlier, the CDA had claimed that the smog in Islamabad was under control but stressed the need for collective action and effective coordination among stakeholders to improve air quality.
The meeting also covered broader initiatives, including expanding the electric bus network, enhancing sanitation services, improving access to clean water, and upgrading slums and rural areas. Naqvi reiterated efforts to preserve Islamabad’s reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful capitals, including the installation of anti-smog machines.
World Bank Country Director Benhassine reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in achieving sustainable development goals. “We are ready to work with the CDA to develop an effective anti-smog strategy,” he said, emphasizing the role of international-standard research in addressing pollution.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the federal interior secretary, CDA chairman, and Islamabad deputy commissioner. Both sides expressed confidence that their collaborative efforts would lead to a cleaner, healthier environment for Islamabad’s residents and visitors.
The Punjab government has already declared an emergency in Lahore and Multan, underscoring the severity of the crisis. As the federal capital takes steps to combat smog, citizens hope for swift and effective action to address this pressing environmental challenge.
