In a major leap toward combating pollution, the Punjab government on saturday launched Pakistan’s first state-of-the-art Air Quality Forecast System a powerful new tool designed to predict smog and pollution levels before they strike. This landmark system will provide weekly forecasts for major cities like Lahore and Faisalabad, arming citizens and authorities with timely information to take preventive action.
Provincial Senior Minister Mariyam Aurangzeb unveiled the initiative, highlighting its potential to transform how Punjab responds to environmental threats. This system merges real-time data from our own monitoring network with global scientific models, she explained. It will integrate with international platforms like Windy and European forecasting systems to deliver accurate and localized air quality updates.
The system will pull live data from a growing network of air quality monitors 41 stations are already active across the province, with plans to expand to 100 in the coming months. Each week, the government will release public reports detailing expected weather and pollution levels, along with health advisories tailored for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Aurangzeb stressed that the initiative is more than a forecasting tool it’s a science-backed foundation for smarter environmental policy. The system is a core component of Punjab’s comprehensive Smog Control Plan, which includes cracking down on crop burning, reducing emissions from vehicles and industries, and tightening enforcement of environmental laws.
The minister also made a heartfelt appeal to the public, urging cooperation in the fight against smog. When air quality drops, our children, elders, and those already struggling with breathing issues must take extra care, she said. Stay indoors when advised. Your health is our priority.
With this move, Punjab is not just predicting the future it’s taking charge of it.