ISLAMABAD, Nov 28 (Alliance News): Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine met on Thursday in Islamabad to discuss collaborative measures to combat smog and promote sustainable development in the capital.
Both sides agreed to prepare a comprehensive anti-smog plan, assigning a joint team from the World Bank and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to develop the strategy.
Minister Naqvi highlighted the urgency of addressing the city’s worsening air quality, with the Air Quality Index reaching a critical level of 271 this year. “We need to act immediately to prevent the situation from becoming hazardous,” he stressed.
The meeting also focused on expanding electric bus services, improving sanitation, providing clean water, and upgrading slums and rural areas to enhance urban development.
Najy Benhassine reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s sustainable development goals, particularly in addressing air quality and urban challenges. “We are ready to assist in developing an effective anti-smog strategy with international-standard reports to address the root causes of pollution,” he said.
The session was attended by the Federal Interior Secretary, CDA Chairman, Deputy Commissioner, and other officials. Minister Naqvi expressed optimism that these collaborative efforts would help create a cleaner, healthier environment for Islamabad’s residents.
