Lahore to Get a 40km Green Belt to Fight Air Pollution

In a bold and environmentally conscious move, the Punjab government has officially approved a transformative 40-kilometer green corridor project aimed at addressing Lahore’s escalating air pollution and chronic smog problem. This landmark initiative is expected to reshape the city’s landscape, providing both ecological and social benefits for its residents.

The corridor, stretching from Shahdara to Raiwind, will turn the unused land adjacent to the railway tracks into a vibrant and sustainable green belt. This effort is a key component of Punjab’s broader environmental improvement plan and urban renewal strategy.

Transforming Railway Land into a Lush Urban Forest

The green corridor project will span approximately 700 kanals and includes plantation of trees, construction of walking tracks, recreational zones, and development of community-friendly spaces along the route. The goal is to reduce toxic air pollutants, increase oxygen levels, and combat the urban heat island effect in Pakistan’s second-largest city.

One of the most innovative elements of the project involves the repurposing of old railway carriages. These historic train coaches will be converted into mini-libraries, open-air cafés, and reading corners, aiming to promote literacy and offer peaceful recreational spots for Lahore’s citizens.

Budget, Timeline, and Government Commitment

The project has been allocated a budget of Rs. 2.35 billion, reflecting the government’s serious commitment to environmental sustainability and urban improvement. According to the Punjab Housing Department, the corridor is expected to be completed within one year.

This timeline demonstrates the urgency with which provincial authorities are addressing air quality issues, particularly during Lahore’s annual winter smog crisis, which has repeatedly brought the city to a standstill in recent years.

Green Corridor Benefits: Environment, Health, and Community

The green corridor offers a multifaceted set of benefits:

1. Environmental Impact

• Trees and vegetation will absorb harmful pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter.

• It will help restore biodiversity by creating new urban habitats for birds and insects.

• The project will reduce the urban heat island effect, cooling surrounding neighborhoods naturally.

2. Public Health Improvements

• By improving air quality, the corridor is expected to significantly lower cases of respiratory illnesses, including asthma and bronchitis.

• The availability of walking tracks and green areas promotes physical activity, contributing to better overall health for city dwellers.

3. Social and Economic Uplift

• Recreational spaces and public libraries will foster community interaction and cultural enrichment.

• The corridor will likely create hundreds of jobs in construction, landscaping, maintenance, and small businesses operating within the recreational zones.

Lahore’s Pollution Crisis: A City in Need of Green Solutions

Lahore frequently ranks among the world’s most polluted cities, with Air Quality Index (AQI) scores often exceeding safe limits, especially during the winter season. Thick smog has led to school closures, flight delays, and serious health emergencies in past years.

Experts argue that such green urban infrastructure is long overdue. The corridor project offers not just a symbolic gesture, but a real, tangible effort to mitigate the environmental disaster unfolding in Lahore.

Public Reaction and Expectations

The announcement has received widespread support from civil society, environmental activists, and urban planning experts. Many citizens expressed enthusiasm on social media, praising the government’s decision to invest in green and livable urban development rather than concrete-heavy mega-projects.

Speaking to the media, an official from the Housing Department stated:

“We are not only building a green belt. we are investing in the future health, education, and well-being of Lahore’s people. The corridor will stand as a model for sustainable urban development across Pakistan.”

A Vision for Sustainable Cities in Pakistan

The green corridor is part of a broader strategy by the Punjab government to make cities more sustainable, healthy, and livable. Similar green initiatives are being explored in other parts of the province, including tree plantation drives, urban forest projects, and climate-resilient infrastructure development.

As the climate crisis intensifies globally, local governments must play a leading role. Punjab’s 40-kilometer green corridor can serve as a blueprint for other cities, offering hope that a cleaner, greener Pakistan is not just a dream  but an achievable reality.

Final Thoughts

The launch of this green corridor from Shahdara to Raiwind is more than just an infrastructure project  it’s a commitment to a healthier future. By integrating environmental science with urban planning and community development, the Punjab government is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable Lahore.

This project will not only help reduce air pollution but also provide much-needed green spaces for residents to relax, learn, and connect with nature. As Pakistan continues to urbanize, initiatives like this are critical in ensuring that cities remain livable, inclusive, and environmentally consciou