As smog hangs over Lahore, Pakistan’s new pollution squad races to douse stubble fires

Lahore, Pakistan is currently experiencing smog, prompting the authorities to intensify their efforts against illegal stubble burning, a practice believed to contribute to the region's yearly pollution crisis. On November 14, officers from a new rapid-response unit arrived at a paddy field near Lahore to extinguish a fire, controlling it within minutes and preventing it from exacerbating the city's already poor air quality.

This unit is the first of its kind in Pakistan, designed specifically to combat pollution. It is part of a broader campaign by Punjab officials, which they claim is effective. Satellite data indicates less burned area in India and Pakistan this year compared to the historical average, even though many locals in Pakistan find it challenging to notice improvements.

The Environment Protection and Climate Change Department in Punjab Punjab has established a 750-member force, divided into 67 rapid-response units, across major rice-growing districts. These teams aim to reach reported fires within 10 to 15 minutes. Complaints can be lodged locally or through various channels, with teams responding as swiftly as possible.

In a single day this week, the department received 679 reports of field fires and extinguished 650 of them. Those who violate the rules can face fines, arrest, or even a jail term of up to six months. Farmers found burning stubble are subject to fines of 15,000 Pakistani rupees ($54) per acre. The government has also distributed over 10,000 subsidized super seeders, covering 60% of their cost, while farmers pay the remaining 40%.

Farmers who switch to these seeds can see a significant increase in their wheat yield per acre. Despite these measures, adoption remains inconsistent. Some farmers, like Saleem Abbas, continue to favor stubble burning due to its perceived affordability and speed. Despite the efforts, patients in Lahore's hospitals are still struggling with the effects of the smog.

Abdullah Nayyar, the director general of the Punjab Environment Protection Department, reported that smog-related throat hospitalizations last month were 69% lower than in October 2025. However, Ahmed Abubakar, a heart patient with diabetes, experienced breathing problems and eye infections due to the smog. Mohammad Niaz Butt, who suffers from blocked nose and throat, blamed the burning stubble for his health issues.