WB approves $300 mln IDA loan for ‘Punjab Clean Air Program’

The World Bank Group Board of Directors has approved  a US$300 million International Development Association (IDA) loan for the Punjab Clean Air Program (PCAP) to strengthen air quality management and combat air pollution.

The PCAP would support the  provincial government’s Smog Mitigation Action Plan (SMAP) in tackling the pressing issue of smog and air pollution with the launch of several comprehensive initiatives aimed at improving air quality and public health across the province particularly in key sectors such as transport, agriculture, industry, energy, and municipal services, a news release said on Saturday.

“The Punjab Clean Air Program supports the Province’s Smog Mitigation Action Plan and is a landmark initiative to significantly improve air quality and enhance the health and well-being of millions of residents,” WB Country Director for Pakistan Najy Benhassine said.