Punjab, Pakistan’s most populous province, has long struggled with severe smog during the winter months. This challenge is compounded by factors such as burning crop residue, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollution. However, the Punjab government has made significant strides in tackling smog and promoting environmental sustainability. The focus has been on addressing the key causes of air pollution and creating a healthier environment for everyone in the province.

The Punjab government has led the way in encouraging the use of modern farming machinery to reduce stubble burning, one of the main contributors to smog. The introduction of equipment like Super Seeders, Mulchers, and Kubota machines has helped farmers incorporate crop residues back into the soil. This improves soil health and reduces the amount of pollutants in the air. Financial support, including Rs. 15 billion through the Kisan Card scheme, has made these technologies more accessible to farmers, helping them reduce smog and increase crop yields.

In addition, the government has embraced new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and smart drones, to monitor and reduce air pollution. These tools enable real-time air quality monitoring, making it easier to identify pollution hotspots and take appropriate action. The use of AI represents a major step forward, and it is something the Punjab government and other provinces can utilize to monitor remote locations, manage tourism, and reduce........

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