WITH winter all but over, the issue of smog has lost its conversational currency in society. This happens every year. We start talking of smog when it hits us, and we forget all about it soon afterwards. The fact is that we need to act against smog across the year. That is the only way to minimise its impact during peak winters.
The government has to enforce strict environmental regulations with respect to factories, brick kilns and vehicles. Many brick kilns still use outdated technology that produces significant air pollution even though eco-friendly zigzag technology is available. Moreover, the unchecked growth of vehicles in urban areas adds to the pollution.
Despite the obvious need for efficient public transportation systems, cities like Lahore lack effective commute options.
Construction activities in urban centres also go unregulated, with no effective measures to control the dust they generate.
One of the most significant contributors to smog is crop residue burning in Punjab, but the government has done little to address the issue. Farmers are left with no affordable or practical alternatives, and while burning stubble is illegal, enforcement is almost non-existent. The government has also failed to engage in meaningful cross-border negotiations to tackle the shared challenge with India.
Public awareness campaigns about the causes and effects of smog have also been minimal. Many people are unaware of their role in exacerbating pollution.
Inaction, lack of coordination, and failure to implement sustainable solutions havetogether turned smog into a recurring disaster. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted, long-term approach.
