Lahore: Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb recently held a meeting with U.S. Consul General Kristin Hawkins in Lahore, where they discussed a variety of critical topics such as health, education, economic growth, climate change, solid waste management, agricultural programs, law and order, price control management, and the protection of minorities.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, Minister Aurangzeb highlighted the proactive governance approach of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who personally oversees the administration’s daily operations focusing on public welfare. In line with the Chief Minister’s directives, provincial ministers are actively involved in fieldwork to regulate the pricing of essential goods, reflecting significant advancements in various sectors including healthcare and women’s economic empowerment.
The meeting also addressed the severe impact of climate change on Punjab, particularly concerning the prevalent smog issues. Following her recent office assumption, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif has activated governmental mechanisms to tackle environmental challenges starting in March. Efforts include the implementation of the e-mass transit system, solarized networks, and digital monitoring systems for crop residues, vehicles, industries, and brick kilns. Additionally, the government has launched agricultural initiatives providing farmers with 1,000 super seeders and roughly 9,500 eco-friendly tractors at a 60% subsidy.
Minister Aurangzeb further announced the upcoming launch of the Punjab Green App by CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, designed to enable citizens to report pollution incidents and monitor local air quality indexes. This digital tool is part of a broader public awareness campaign on smog prevention. The minister expressed her gratitude towards Consul General Hawkins for her continued support and cooperation in these endeavors.