Daily Times

While the Punjab government’s current efforts to tackle smog are steps in the right direction, more comprehensive, long-term policies are needed to bring about lasting change. The seasonal spikes in air pollution, often attributed to factors like stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution, require sustainable interventions.

One critical area is urban infrastructure development. The government needs to focus on creating green cities through environmentally friendly urban planning, which includes expanding green spaces, improving waste management systems, and promoting green building practices. Initiatives like increasing tree plantations and reducing traffic congestion through better road networks can play a significant role in reducing the urban heat island effect, which exacerbates pollution. Lahore, for example, suffers from high traffic emissions, and while the introduction of electric bikes and electric buses is a promising start, scaling this effort across the province is crucial.

Agriculture also plays a vital role in Punjab’s air quality. The burning of crop residue in Punjab and neighboring Indian states is a significant contributor to the region’s smog problem. While crackdowns and fines have been implemented, the government must offer farmers viable alternatives. Incentivizing sustainable agricultural practices such as the use of biodegradable crop covers, crop rotation, and no-burn techniques can significantly reduce pollution from stubble burning. The introduction of machinery like **Happy Seeders**, which allows for the direct sowing of crops without the need for burning, can be supported and subsidized to encourage widespread adoption.

Another major factor is the reliance on **non-renewable energy sources**. Punjab’s energy sector is still heavily dependent on fossil fuels. To reduce long-term air pollution, there must be a shift toward **clean and renewable energy**, such as **solar**, **wind**, and **hydroelectric power**. Expanding renewable energy sources can not only lower emissions but also provide a sustainable energy supply for industries and households.

Public health is also at stake, as persistent exposure to hazardous air pollutants can lead to long-term respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and a host of other health problems. According to health experts, Punjab’s air pollution crisis has led to increased cases of respiratory conditions, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Implementing stronger air quality monitoring systems, increasing public awareness campaigns, and encouraging citizens to adopt preventive measures—such as wearing masks and limiting outdoor activity during high-smog periods—are also essential.

Finally, for any long-term policy to be successful, strong enforcement and public-private collaboration are necessary. The creation of advisory councils, like the Advisory Council for Environment, is an encouraging sign, but there is a need for greater coordination between different government bodies, industries, and environmental organizations. Empowering local governments and communities with more resources and authority to manage their environmental challenges can also help in reducing pollution levels effectively.

In conclusion, while Punjab’s current smog-containment efforts address immediate challenges, a comprehensive long-term environmental strategy is required. This would involve everything from structural reforms in energy and agriculture to public health awareness and strict regulatory enforcement. Only with sustained efforts can Punjab hope to see cleaner air and a reduction in the devastating impact of smog in the years to come.