Islamabad: Minister for Climate Change, Musadik Masood Malik, has said that the government is actively working to control environmental pollution. Addressing a ceremony virtually from Islamabad on Saturday, the Minister highlighted the severe human and economic damages caused by pollution.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister noted that approximately one hundred thirty thousand people die prematurely each year due to environmental pollution, and the breathing capacity of about forty percent of children is being compromised by smog. He emphasized that smog also negatively impacts the economy, national growth, and students’ education.

Musadik Malik stated that the government is taking concrete steps to combat these issues by introducing a policy to upgrade oil refineries and ensure the import of high-quality oil that meets international standards. The Minister also praised the efforts of the Punjab government, which has implemented several key initiatives for emission control. These initiatives include mandating zig-zag technology in kilns, establishing Anti-Smog squads, introducing electric buses, and distributing thousands of E-bikes.