AS Lahore continues to choke under the thick blanket of smog, it is clear that ad-hoc, temporary fixes are not enough. The Punjab government’s recent reshuffling of responsibilities, assigning assistant commissioners the task of monitoring and preventing stubble burning, reflects a necessary but insufficient response to a deep-seated problem. The alarming air quality levels, with AQI readings frequently soaring beyond safe limits, are not just numbers on a scale but a grim reminder of the health emergency facing Lahore’s residents. The brief respite in air quality following rain was a false dawn, as the AQI readings surged again, bringing the city back to the brink of an environmental and public health catastrophe. This crisis is a complex amalgamation of factors: vehicular and industrial emissions, smoke from brick kilns, stubble burning, and construction activities. The onset of winter exacerbates the situation due to meteorological phenomena like temperature inversion.

The government’s response, while well-intentioned, seems to lack a long-term vision. The focus on punitive measures, such as fines and demolitions, and the deployment of teams to monitor industrial units, are necessary steps but they scratch only the surface of a multifaceted problem. The Lahore High Court’s recommendation for school closures and remote working, while protective in the short term, does not tackle the underlying causes. A holistic approach is needed, combining strict environmental regulation enforcement with sustainable practices across sectors. This includes adopting cleaner technologies in industries and brick kilns, promoting sustainable agriculture to curb stubble burning, enhancing waste management, and improving public transportation to reduce vehicular pollution. The inadequacy of resources, such as the environment department in Lahore operating with only six inspectors, highlights the need for better infrastructure and manpower to enforce regulations effectively. Citizens must be informed and encouraged to make environmentally conscious choices. The crisis requires addressing both symptoms and root causes. It’s time for action that is as persistent and pervasive as the smog itself.

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2023