Hasan Murtaza, General Secretary of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Central Punjab, expressed strong concerns over the Punjab government’s handling of the severe smog crisis affecting Lahore and surrounding areas. Murtaza criticized the ruling authorities, accusing them of failing to control environmental pollution just as they have struggled with political challenges.
Highlighting the case of a three-year-old girl who recently approached the courts over smog-related health issues, Murtaza questioned the government’s commitment to addressing public health, particularly given the Chief Minister’s recent trip to Geneva. He argued that the government’s reliance on temporary solutions, such as closing schools and motorways, would not eliminate the risk posed by smog.
Murtaza also questioned the delay in diplomatic efforts, asking what became of the diplomatic letter addressed to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab, which proposed collaborative action to reduce smog. Additionally, he expressed skepticism regarding plans for artificial rain, labeling them as impractical.
The PPP leader urged the government to take substantial and long-term measures to combat the worsening air quality and prioritize public health in the face of this escalating crisis.
