In Lahore, Pakistan’s Punjab province, a severe smog crisis has prompted a unique response as a three-year-old girl has petitioned against the local government for its handling of the environmental situation. The city remains engulfed in hazardous air quality, with its Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing the 800-mark, topping global rankings according to Swiss air quality monitor IQAir. On several occasions, Lahore’s AQI has even exceeded the 1000-mark, creating life-threatening conditions for residents.
As smog persists, Lahore’s populace, especially young children and the elderly, faces heightened risks of respiratory issues. Hospitals have reported a surge in patients with these ailments, prompting provincial authorities to impose a smog emergency. Educational institutions statewide, including in Lahore, will remain closed until November 17 to mitigate health risks. The government has strongly advised people to wear masks outdoors as part of preventive health measures.
The petition, spearheaded by Amal Sekhera, a young child, and her legal representative, seeks accountability for the government’s failure to provide a clean and healthy environment, as mandated under Article 99-A of the Constitution. The petition underscores the vulnerability of children and elderly citizens to air pollution and demands immediate action to safeguard constitutional rights.
Punjab’s senior provincial minister, Maryam Aurangzeb, acknowledged the issue, indicating that the smog’s intensity is likely to persist for at least another 10 days. Alongside Lahore, other cities, including Multan and Gujranwala, are also bearing the brunt of these adverse conditions.
This unprecedented legal move captures the urgency of environmental action in Pakistan and highlights the acute impact of air pollution on public health. The situation calls for immediate government intervention to restore safe living conditions and uphold fundamental constitutional rights, as demanded by concerned citizens through legal avenues.
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/11/07/pakistan-three-year-old-approaches-court-as-lahore-remains-worlds-most-polluted-city/
Category : INTERNATIONAL,News Alert
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Publish Date: 2024-11-07 21:25:00
