World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine met with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad on Thursday to discuss joint initiatives to tackle smog and promote sustainable development.
During the meeting, both sides agreed to work on an anti-smog strategy. A team from the World Bank and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will prepare the plan.
Discussions also covered sustainable development goals and other matters of mutual interest. Mohsin Naqvi stressed the urgency of addressing Islamabad’s air pollution, noting that the Air Quality Index (AQI) had reached 271 this year.
Naqvi highlighted ongoing efforts, including a review of installing anti-smog machines and measures to curb air pollution. He also mentioned an electric bus service in the capital to help maintain a cleaner environment.
The minister emphasized the need to improve slums and rural areas, with clean water and sanitation identified as key priorities. Najy Benhassine assured the World Bank’s cooperation in formulating an anti-smog strategy in partnership with the CDA.
He said the plan would include a comprehensive report to identify the root causes of smog. The meeting was attended by the Federal Home Secretary, Chairman of CDA, Deputy Commissioner, and other officials
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