Govt aims for 'dust-free Lahore'

As Lahore continues to struggle with a deteriorating air quality, the Punjab government has launched an initiative aimed at transforming the metropolis into Pakistan's first 'dust-free city'.

The plan comes at a time when the city's air pollution remains a significant public health concern.

On Wednesday, Lahore recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 149, classified as "unhealthy for sensitive groups," with PM2.5 concentration reaching 55 micrograms per cubic metre, far exceeding safe limits.

The worsening pollution levels, attributed to a mix of construction activity, vehicular emissions, industrial output, and seasonal factors, have prompted the authorities to act. Punjab Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Noorul Amin Mengal visited the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) headquarters to review ongoing and upcoming urban development projects. LDA Director General Tahir Farooq briefed him on environmental reforms being integrated into project planning and execution.

One of the key steps announced was the tightening of construction-related standard operating procedures (SOPs) to reduce airborne dust and pollution generated from infrastructure work.

A uniform development standard will be introduced across all government departments to improve sustainability, visual coherence, and regulatory enforcement in urban planning.

The meeting participants were told that the government also intends to legislate design guidelines for commercial property facades in a bid to reduce visual pollution and restore architectural harmony in the city.

In a parallel development, a wrap-up meeting was held with the World Bank's Implementation Mission for the Punjab Clean Air Programme, which was led by Transport Task Team Leader Shyam Srinivasan.