Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has humorously dismissed Pakistani leader Maryam Nawaz's claims regarding smog diplomacy. He said, 'Maryam says she will write me a letter about our smog reaching Lahore'.
At an event, Pakistan's Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz commented on smog diplomacy. Bhagwant Mann humorously countered, saying Maryam claims she will write to him about the smog reaching Lahore, while Delhi also blames us for their smog. It seems our smog is just going in circles," he quibbled.
'Was frustrated with one Pakistani, now you too'
He further jested, saying feel free to write letters as we were already frustrated with one Pakistani, now you can too. Wherever pollution occurs, people blame us.
Mann's statement comes as a response to Maryam Nawaz's unexpected proposal for "smog diplomacy" with India. Major cities like Lahore and New Delhi are battling alarming pollution levels, ranking among the world's most polluted regions.
Maryam Nawaz's Statement
Recently, Lahore experienced its worst pollution levels, recording an AQI of 1900. Maryam Nawaz claimed that smoke from India's Punjab greatly affects Lahore. Besides Lahore, air in Karachi, Peshawar, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Multan has also turned toxic.
At a recent Diwali event in Lahore, Nawaz emphasized the need for collaborative action, suggesting the air pollution issue should be resolved diplomatically with India. "I am considering writing to the Punjab Chief Minister. This is not a political matter, but a humanitarian one," she mentioned.
Schools, Parks, and Zoos Closed Until November 17
According to Swiss group IQAir's live rating, Lahore is now the world's most polluted city. In response, the government has already closed public places like educational institutions, parks, and zoos in Lahore and other areas until November 17.
It is evident how severe pollution is impacting Lahore. The air quality index (AQI) hit the 1900 mark. Consequently, Lahore’s administration declared a week-long school holiday, and measures such as water spraying on roads and halting construction work have been recommended. Furthermore, 50% of employees in private and government offices have been advised to work from home, and locals are encouraged to wear masks outdoors.
