• Nasa report shows 740% increase in India’s Punjab. 
• CM terms India’s environmental aggression worrisome. 
• Advises children, elders to especially use mask. 

LAHORE: Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed concern over the alarming increase in the crop stubble burning in India and termed it an “environmental aggression”, The News reported Saturday. 

The report issued by Nasa shows a 740% increase in the burning of crop stubble in just a single day in India’s Punjab, said the chief minister. 

Naqvi said that the smog in Lahore has risen to an alarming level owing to India’s environmental aggression, terming the situation highly worrisome and alarming.

CM apprised that the Punjab government is adopting every step, which is humanly possible to combat the hazards of smog. He said that eyes, breathing and E&T ailments are on the rise due to smog and advised everyone especially children and elders to use a mask. 

Meanwhile, US Consul General Kirstin K Hawkins called on Naqvi and discussed matters of mutual interest, including collaboration across various sectors, with a particular focus on addressing the smog issue.

Both explored opportunities to boost investment, enhance cooperation in agriculture and tourism and collaborate on restoring historical landmarks. Naqvi welcomed the US support for the restoration of historical buildings in the province.

The CM expressed his commitment to strengthening the excellent relations between Pakistan and the US. He articulated the desire to foster bilateral ties under an agreement declaring Punjab and California as sister states. 

Naqvi highlighted that the increase in smog levels in the provincial capital and other cities was attributed to the extensive burning of crop residues in the neighbouring country. As a response, he announced the imposition of a smog emergency and the mandatory requirement of masks for students in schools as a preventive measure. 

“Every possible effort was being taken to mitigate the impact of smog,” the CM said.