The Punjab Government has launched the first latest generation air quality forecast system of Pakistan, a historical initiative designed to curb pollution and provide precise forecasts for the main cities, including LaHore and Faisalabad. The system will issue weekly public reports, predicting both climatic conditions and pollution levels, to guide authorities and citizens in environmental risk management.
Speaking at the inauguration, the provincial senior minister, Marriyum Aurengzeb, said that the new system combines real -time monitoring with advanced scientific models and will be integrated with international platforms such as prognostic prognosis models. “It will work in line with the global air quality indices while addressing local requirements,” he said.
The system will draw data from modern Punjab air quality monitoring stations, 41 of which are already operational, to provide detailed evaluations of climatic patterns and pollution levels. The authorities said that the number of monitoring stations will be extended to 100 in the coming months. In addition to forecasts, the system will provide citizens with health protection notices, particularly for vulnerable groups.
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Aurengzeb emphasized that the initiative would strengthen the scientific foundations for policy formulation. The system is part of the broader Smog control plan of Punjab, which requires strict action against crop residues burning, steps to reduce vehicular and industrial emissions and the narrowest application of environmental regulations, he added.
He urged citizens to cooperate with government efforts to combat pollution, warning about the health risks raised by the SMOG. “During Smog episodes, children, elders and patients with respiratory diseases should take additional precautions and avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure,” he advised.
