Crop Burning Causing Smog In Winter

APP

Islamabad: Environment, Planning and Forests Punjab Caretaker Minister Bilal Afzal informed that Pakistan is using its diplomatic channels and urging the Indian government to ensure that the crops stop burning which is causing smog in the winter season.

Smog is being generated in India due to the burning of waste in rice factories and an increase in air pollution

Talking to a state-owned news channel about the current issue of smog in Punjab on Wednesday, Bilal Afzal further stated that both India and Pakistan should recognise the imperative nature of tackling the challenge of crop residue burning. Pakistani farmers are very aware of the problem but crop burning is still alive in India.

To control the smog, we have imposed a ban on crop residue burning, strict penalties for violations, and asked farmers to use modern harvesting technologies to discourage stubble burning, Bilal added.

Afzal mentioned that the lack of awareness among farmers, limited access to the latest machinery and adherence to traditional practices are posing hindrances to progress.

He stressed that public awareness, a comprehensive approach, technological innovations for farmers, better fuel quality and laws are needed to tackle environmental problems in the country.

A campaign is also being run on social media to create more awareness about the environmental damage caused by burning solid waste and the effects of crop burning, Interim Minister stated.

In Pakistan, we are introducing our financial assistance programmes and subsidies for machinery, aiming to encourage farmers to adopt modern practices, he added.

The Punjab government has declared a health and environmental emergency and directed authorities to devise a comprehensive plan to combat the issue, informed Minister Bilal.

Afzal added that tree plantation is another responsibility of any individual; rather, everyone should come forward and take part in the noble cause of tree plantation as trees have a positive impact on the environment.