As the Punjab government plans to conduct artificial rain in Lahore to combat severe smog levels, sources in the Finance Ministry estimate the project’s cost at Rs350 million. Chief Meteorologist Chaudhry Aslam mentioned earlier this week that artificial rain is expected in Lahore next month to address the smog crisis.

The concentration of PM 2.5, a measure of tiny particulate matter in the air, reached 269, considered very unhealthy, according to IQ Air. The Finance Ministry has reportedly moved a summary regarding the funding of the artificial rain project, which requires approval from Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

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Punjab Interim Information Minister Amir Mir stated that cloud seeding, a form of artificial rain, is the most effective way to address the issue, and arrangements with Chinese experts have been finalized. Chinese experts are expected to visit Pakistan soon. Artificial rain, or cloud seeding, involves the dispersal of chemicals into clouds to promote the formation of raindrops or snowflakes.

Lahore has been grappling with severe smog, leading to serious health problems for citizens. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently places it among the most polluted cities globally. The environmental impact is attributed to factors such as the burning of solid fuel, industrial activities, and vehicle emissions. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has successfully tested artificial rain in the past.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sources reveal that certain industrial practices, such as the use of sub-standard fuel in furnaces and burning of materials like rubber tires and plastic, contribute significantly to air pollution in Lahore. The region’s increased industrialization, economic development, and population growth have heightened the demand for energy and fossil fuels, contributing to environmental challenges.