Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Khawaja Imran Nazir and Punjab Minister for Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Khawaja Salman Rafique met Turkish Consul General Mr. Ali Arbash in Lahore today.
Director General Environmental Protection Agency Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh also present during the meeting.
During the meeting, the Provincial Health Ministers briefed about government’s initiatives to combat smog.
On this occasion, DG EPA Imran Hamid Sheikh shed light on the factors contributing to smog in Punjab and various preventive measures.
During the meeting, the Turkish Consul General announced full cooperation from the Turkish government in smog control efforts in Punjab.
Speaking on this occasion, the Provincial Health Ministers said that the Punjab government seeks to benefit from Turkiye’s technology in smog control.
They apprised that the direction of eastern winds in cities like Lahore is a major factor in the spread of smog and that smoke from vehicles, factories and the burning of crop residues also contributes to smog.
The Provincial Health Ministers informed that industries, vehicles and other contributing factors are being closely monitored for violations of environmental regulations.
They said that the Punjab government has developed a comprehensive strategy to prevent smog and heavy fines will be imposed for violations.
Turkish Consul General Ali Arbash said that the Punjab government will provide a list of the technology and equipment used in smog control and that the Turkish government will take all possible steps to provide the necessary technology and equipment for smog prevention.
Director of CDC Dr. Yadullah was also present at the meeting.
