MULTAN: President of the Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Mian Bakhtawar Tanveer Sheikh has urged the government to introduce a comprehensive “Clean Air Act” and ensure its strict implementation to tackle the escalating smog crisis. Highlighting the severe impacts of smog on public health, education, and economic activities, he stressed the need for immediate and coordinated efforts to mitigate its effects.
Sheikh explained how the rising intensity of smog is disrupting industrial operations and business transactions. Road closures have created significant challenges in the transportation of raw materials and goods, adversely affecting economic activities. He further noted that children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable to the health hazards posed by smog, which is also hindering their education and well-being.
Sheikh called on the government, private institutions, and the public to take urgent action against the key causes of smog, such as industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and the burning of crop residues. Drawing attention to successful strategies employed by countries like China, the United States, Germany, South Korea, and Japan, he urged Pakistan to adopt similar measures to control air pollution.
He proposed several practical solutions, including extensive tree plantation drives, reducing the number of vehicles on roads, improving fuel quality, and enforcing immediate bans on burning waste materials like tires and coal. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of maintaining public transport and other government vehicles to reduce emissions, imposing strict penalties for cutting down trees, and promoting eco-friendly behaviors among citizens.
The MCCI president warned of the far-reaching consequences of ignoring the smog crisis, stressing that unchecked pollution could continue to undermine economic stability, public health, and educational opportunities. He emphasized the need for collective responsibility, urging all stakeholders to play their part in safeguarding the environment. Sheikh assured the chamber’s commitment to supporting sustainable policies that ensure a healthier and more stable future for all.
