World Bank Approves $300m for Punjab Clean Air Initiative

A $300 million IDA (International Development Association) loan is approved by the World Bank for the PCAP 'Punjab Clean Air Programme'. The loan is approved to fight the air pollution within Punjab with the Punjab Clean Air Initiative and improve the air quality management.

On Friday, the PCAP was approved by the World Bank Group’s board of directors for supporting the SMAP (Smog Mitigation Action Plan) of the government. This is to tackle the alarming issue of smog and air pollution across the province. The mitigation of the issue will be done through several initiatives aiming to improve the quality of air and public health across Punjab.

According to a press release issued by the World Bank mission on Saturday in Islamabad, Key sectors like transport, agriculture, industry, energy, and municipal services will be covered in the initiative.

“The Punjab Clean Air Programme supports the province’s Smog Mitigation Action Plan and is a landmark initiative to significantly improve air quality and enhance the health and well-being of millions of residents,” said WB Country Director for Pakistan Najy Benhassine. “Cleaner air will reduce the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and contribute to a healthier, more livable environment”