Pakistan Fights Smog: Stubble Burning Crackdown Intensifies

Pakistani authorities have expanded a campaign against illegal stubble burning, a practice contributing significantly to the region's annual pollution crisis.

New, dedicated quick-response units are being dispatched to paddy fields to swiftly control fires that fuel the toxic mix of industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and construction dust.

These units, comprising 750 members across 67 rapid-response teams in major rice-growing districts, aim to extinguish field fires within minutes of receiving reports. Violators face substantial fines of 15,000 Pakistani rupees per acre, with the possibility of arrest or a six-month jail term for non-compliance.

The government is also promoting the use of subsidized super seeders, covering 60% of the cost, to help farmers clear fields for subsequent crops without burning. While some farmers report improved yields using this machinery, many still find stubble burning the cheapest and fastest method.

Smog continues to pose a significant health risk, with reports of increased hospitalizations for respiratory and eye infections in Lahore. Although recent health department data suggests a slight decrease in smog-related hospitalizations compared to a previous year, residents express frustration over the persistent pollution.