The author argues that Punjab could achieve clean air if the government prioritized sustainable solutions over spectacle.
Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city, has been recording some of the highest air pollution levels globally, reaching a hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) of 707. Dense clouds of dust and pollutants have blanketed the region, trapping heat and obstructing cooler weather patterns, further cementing Lahore’s status as the world’s most polluted city. The problem is widespread across South Asia, where 29 of the world’s 30 most polluted cities are found in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India.
According to World Bank data, air pollution incurs significant economic costs in the region, with annual expenses estimated in 2019 at $36.8 billion for India, $8.1 billion for Bangladesh, and $47 billion for Pakistan. This begs the question of whether any institutions are effectively addressing this issue, especially in Pakistan, where the Ministry of Climate Change and other entities seem to invest millions annually in climate initiatives, often with limited impact. Pakistan has set a goal of reducing projected emissions by 50% by 2030. However, a recent greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions assessment, backed by the European Commission, showed that Pakistan’s total emissions reached 546 million tons in 2022, up from 307 million tons in 2002. This breakdown includes methane (49.9%), carbon dioxide (36.5%), and nitrous oxide (11.7%).
While government-backed efforts may fall short, individuals committed to environmental preservation have emerged. One such figure is Engineer Arshad H. Abbasi, who led efforts to protect the 40,000 Kanals of ancient forest on Patriata Mountain—a critical water source for Pakistan’s twin cities—from being developed. Abbasi is also known internationally for his proposal to demilitarize the 700 km² Siachen Glacier by transforming it into a Peace Park, arguing that Indian military presence accelerates glacier melt. India has acknowledged this and proposed mutual withdrawal if the Line of Control over the glacier is delineated. Abbasi’s dedication to air quality and smog reduction over the past decade is well documented.
Two months ago, motivated by my encouragement, Abbasi emailed a proposal to Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz, via her Senior Minister, Maryam Aurangzeb. A key element of the proposal is the complete phase-out of coal, which is heavily used in major sectors, including the brick kiln industry (22.5%) and the cement industry (33%). Preliminary findings show that imported coal costs USD 110 per ton, or PKR 31,210 as of May, with a calorific value of 23,000 BTU/kg, while locally available fuels surpass both imported and domestic coal in heating value.
The proposal’s initiative to make Punjab self-sufficient in natural gas within a few years is especially promising. The approach involves converting waste into clean transportation fuels, such as CNG, diesel, methanol, and aviation jet fuel. Additionally, producing dimethyl ether—a heavy condensate gas—offers a viable LPG alternative for cooking across Punjab and Pakistan more broadly. This advancement is expected to conserve foreign exchange, reduce reliance on oil, LPG, and LNG imports, and potentially save up to $30 billion in energy costs, which would help strengthen the rupee against the dollar. Punjab could significantly benefit from utilizing the very waste that pollutes the air.
The root causes of smog and air pollution in these countries have been identified, and a practical solution has emerged using sensors to measure pollutants like CO2, CH4, N2O, H2O, and other gases. With his son’s help, Abbasi aims to eliminate these pollutants in the long run. Over the next three years, this effort could cut air pollution by at least 25%, potentially saving South Asian countries around $23 billion.
It is worth noting that the Punjab government has spent nearly two months focusing on media campaigns aimed at visibility rather than working diligently on the scientific and technical aspects of the proposal. While this initiative may appear promising, it’s also lucrative for certain individuals. Who will conduct a performance audit to evaluate such a futile effort?
The government plans to use cloud seeding, or artificial rain, to combat smog in Lahore in the coming days. Yet, this seems like another wasteful expenditure. How much will it cost, and how long will its effects last? The most baffling response, however, is the imposition of a so-called “green lockdown.” Such actions seem poorly thought out, restricting people to their homes, clogging traffic, and pushing Punjab back toward the Stone Age rather than providing an effective, sustainable solution.
The solution to smog and air pollution lies in scientific and technical measures, not media gimmicks. Real progress can only be achieved if entities like the UNDP or World Bank onboard experts like Arshad H. Abbasi, whose solutions are applicable across South Asia—not just in Pakistan.
