Communities of different faiths in Pakistan have come together to address the serious problem of air pollution in the city, which has become one of the most polluted in the world.
Likas News
As air quality in Punjab’s capital continues to exceed World Health Organization (WHO) limits, local authorities have closed primary schools and public offices and are considering banning motor vehicles.
Doctors have reported an increase in respiratory diseases, lung diseases and allergies related to poor air quality.
Lahore, which has 14 million inhabitants and is the center of Pakistan, now carries the worrying label of being “the most polluted city in the world.”
In a report by the Vatican’s Fides agency, Christian James Rahmat, head of the World Commission on Human Development, states that in response, leaders of the Muslim, Christian, Sikh and Hindu communities “have launched interfaith cooperation initiatives to resolve the problem”. , which has become one of the biggest environmental and public health challenges and poses serious health risks.”
Rehmat said the initiative attempted to go beyond short-term solutions and create “long-term habits of environmental protection among the public.”
He said religious leaders are using their influence to “raise awareness, educate believers and encourage community participation in sustainable practices.”
Messages consistent with their religious traditions present caring for the environment as a responsibility: Christians refer to Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’i, Sikh representatives advocate “well-being for all,” and Muslim clerics point out that ” creation and living beings should not be understood as ‘objects of consumption’.” The collaborative has undertaken several initiatives, including a city-wide tree-planting campaign, and is hosting seminars, workshops and community events to promote sustainable practices.
Mr. Rahmat said: “Changes are being encouraged in people’s lifestyles, such as using public transport, adopting clean energy sources, car sharing, etc. Religious leaders are encouraging people to adopt ecological habits and practices. In addition to community action, religious groups are pushing for government action. They are urging stricter regulations on vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants.
Rahmat said: “We hope that as religious representatives, we can persuade politicians to take measures that structurally solve the smog problem to make the urban environment cleaner.” Education is an important part of the alliance’s strategy. Mr Rahmat said: “Religious communities are trying to disseminate these issues among young people, including children, adolescents and young adults, especially in schools at all levels, about the principles of environmental protection rooted in their respective religious traditions. “.
