Islamabad, Mar 30, 2025: The World Bank has sanctioned a substantial $300 million (approximately Rs. 84 billion) loan for Punjab to combat severe air pollution. The initiative focuses on deploying electric buses, mitigating farm residue combustion, and enhancing air quality control systems.
Oversight for the program will be managed under the Punjab Clean Air Program (PCAP), aiming to cut fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels by 35% over the next ten years.
This move is expected to significantly improve Lahore’s air quality, benefiting its 13 million residents for generations.
The financial aid will support the procurement of 400 electric buses, the distribution of 5,000 advanced super seeders to prevent crop residue burning, and the expansion of air monitoring networks and fuel testing laboratories.
A major portion of the funds, around $245 million, is earmarked for reforming the transportation sector, while $20 million is allocated for initiatives tackling agricultural pollution.
This strategic intervention aligns with Punjab’s ongoing efforts to curb escalating smog levels, particularly in Lahore, where PM2.5 concentrations frequently surpass the hazardous threshold of 300-400 µg/m3.
The World Bank has highlighted that pollution from vehicles, industrial activities, and household fuel usage poses serious health threats.
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Beyond infrastructural improvements, the project will also drive regulatory enhancements and public awareness initiatives.
These efforts aim to enforce stricter pollution control measures and encourage sustainable practices among industries and the general public.
With air pollution emerging as a critical environmental and public health concern, Punjab’s proactive measures mark a significant step towards cleaner air and a healthier future for its residents.
However, the integration of electric public transport and advanced monitoring technologies underscores the region’s commitment to combating pollution and ensuring long-term sustainability.
