World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine met on Thursday in Islamabad, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, to discuss collaborative partnerships in the fight against smog and promoting sustainable development.
The two sides agreed to work towards an anti-smog strategy during their discussions. A team from the World Bank and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will develop the plan.
Topics of discussion on this occasion also included other matters about mutual interest and sustainable development goals. Mohsin Naqvi underscored the need for urgent intervention in the fight against air pollution in Islamabad, noting that the AQI had already crossed this year’s threshold limit of 271.
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Naqvi explained some of the ongoing efforts by saying, “Besides setting up anti-smog machines, we are also looking into ways to mitigate air pollution”. SA also announced a new electric bus service in the capital to promote cleaner air.
The minister highlighted the need for improving slums and rural areas, with clean water and sanitation being top priorities. Najy Benhassine assured the World Bank’s cooperation in the formulation of anti-smog strategies in partnership with CDA.
He said the strategy would entail a full report to identify the root causes of smog. Among those attending were the Federal Home Secretary, Chairman of CDA, Deputy Commissioner, and other officials.