The World Bank has approved a concessional loan worth 300 million dollars under the International Development Association (IDA) to support the Punjab Clean Air Program (PCAP).

The initiative aims to strengthen air quality management and combat pollution across the province.

The PCAP will assist the Punjab government in implementing its Smog Mitigation Action Plan (SMAP), which seeks to address the critical issue of smog and air pollution. The program will introduce several measures to improve air quality, particularly in the transport, agriculture, industry, energy, and municipal services sectors.

World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, Najy Benhassine, termed the program a landmark initiative for improving air quality and public health. He said the cleaner air will reduce respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, leading to a healthier and more livable environment.

The program will enhance air quality management infrastructure, strengthen regulatory institutions, and promote public awareness regarding pollution control.

Key interventions under the program include the introduction of 5,000 super seeders to curb crop residue burning, which is one of the main causes of seasonal smog, along with the deployment of 600 electric buses to encourage public transport use.

Additionally, regulatory-grade air quality monitoring stations will be expanded across Punjab, and two new fuel testing laboratories will be established to improve fuel quality standards.

Recognizing the role of public participation, the program will promote behavioral change through educational campaigns and citizen engagement.

Schools and hospitals, along with other vulnerable groups, will receive targeted advisories on air pollution’s health impacts and prevention measures.