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Interior Minister, World Bank Collaborate on Anti-Smog Plan for Islamabad
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and World Bank’s Najy Benhassine join forces to tackle rising smog levels in Islamabad.
ND
by News Desk
2024-11-28
Interior Minister, World Bank Collaborate on Anti-Smog Plan for Islamabad

In a high-level meeting in Islamabad on Thursday, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine discussed urgent measures to combat smog and promote sustainable development in the federal capital.

Smog Crisis Escalates

The alarming rise in smog across Punjab, particularly in Lahore and Multan, has prompted emergency declarations. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Multan has surpassed 2,000 twice, setting a grim record. Islamabad has also been affected, with AQI reaching 271, raising health concerns.

Joint Anti-Smog Initiative

To address the worsening air quality, Naqvi and Benhassine agreed to form a joint team of the World Bank and the Capital Development Authority (CDA). The collaboration aims to devise an effective anti-smog plan and identify long-term solutions.

Minister Naqvi stressed the urgency:

“Before the situation becomes hazardous, we must urgently implement a comprehensive anti-smog strategy.”

The CDA also emphasized collective action and stakeholder coordination to improve air quality.

Broader Sustainable Development Goals

The discussions extended beyond air pollution, focusing on key areas such as:

  • Expanding electric bus services to reduce vehicular emissions.
  • Enhancing sanitation systems and providing access to clean water.
  • Upgrading slums and rural areas for better living standards.

Naqvi highlighted ongoing reviews of anti-smog machine installations and expressed confidence in collaborative efforts to make Islamabad a cleaner, healthier city.

World Bank’s Commitment

World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine reaffirmed the organization’s support:

“We are ready to work with the CDA to develop an effective anti-smog strategy and address root causes of pollution through international standard reports.”

Future Outlook

The collaborative approach aims to restore Islamabad’s reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful capitals while ensuring public health and environmental sustainability.
Tagged:

AirQuality

WorldBank

SustainableDevelopment

SmogControl
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