Climate Crisis | Lives of millions at risk due to smog | India not to be blamed | Pakistan at COP29

In this episode of New Wave Global, host Rabia Mehmood speaks with environmental lawyer and Pakistan Climate Council member Ahmad Rafay Alam about Punjab's hazardous toxic smog and air pollution crisis. The UN has issued a warning that millions of children under five are at increased risk due to the smog. Alam highlights the government's refusal to address this urgent issue, exacerbating a public health crisis across Pakistan. He emphasizes that the smog is a pervasive air pollution problem, neither confined to Lahore nor a seasonal issue. Alam suggests that New Delhi and Islamabad could set aside their differences and pursue climate diplomacy to combat the regional air pollution crisis and share vital information. While past initiatives have been limited to surface-level statements, Alam stresses the need for concrete action. He also comments on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's COP29 address, noting that while Pakistan and other Global South nations require climate financing, the government must also commit to reducing pollution at home.