(24News) Provincial Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has said that no proposal to buy PIA is under consideration in Punjab.
While giving a press conference in Lahore, Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari said that in the first phase of PIA’s privatization, there is a problem with PIA’s direct flights. There is no intention of Punjab government to buy PIA, yesterday Governor Sindh was also talking about PIA issue, any provincial government can launch its own airline, currently there is no such airline in Punjab province. No suggestion, the government’s job is not to do business, it is definitely the government’s job to make business conditions favorable, if someone else or provinces and businessmen build an airline together, that is also fine.
Talking about smog, Uzma Bukhari said that as soon as the wind turns towards Lahore, the index changes. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will write a letter to Indian Chief Minister Punjab today. We know about our strategy, Foreign Office. A letter will be sent through, Lahore’s air quality index is around 280, seniors and children should not leave their homes unnecessarily.
Interview with Uzma Bukhari: Insights on PIA Privatization and Lahore’s Smog Issue
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Minister Bukhari. Let’s dive into the recent discussions surrounding Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). There have been rumors about the Punjab government considering a buyout of PIA. Can you clarify the current stance on this issue?
Uzma Bukhari: Thank you for having me. I want to make it clear that there is absolutely no proposal under consideration for the government of Punjab to buy PIA. Our focus is on ensuring that the privatization process is smooth, but we see that there are significant challenges, especially with PIA’s direct flights. Our priority is to create favorable conditions for businesses rather than engaging in business ourselves.
Time.news Editor: That’s an important clarification. If the government isn’t looking to acquire PIA, what alternative models do you see for airlines in Punjab?
Uzma Bukhari: Any provincial government has the option to establish its own airline. Currently, Punjab does not have such an airline, but if private investors or other provinces come forward to collaborate on building one, it would be a positive step. The government’s role is to facilitate these conditions for thriving business opportunities.
Time.news Editor: Shifting gears to environmental concerns, you mentioned the smog issue affecting Lahore. With the air quality index near 280, what steps is the Punjab government taking to address this serious issue?
Uzma Bukhari: The air quality in Lahore is indeed a pressing concern. We are closely monitoring the air quality index and managing public health advisories. As soon as the wind pattern shifts towards Lahore, it exacerbates the pollution situation. In fact, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is writing to the Indian Chief Minister of Punjab today as part of our collaborative approach to tackling this crisis. We want to address cross-border pollution sources effectively. It’s crucial for our seniors and children to remain indoors as much as possible during these periods.
Time.news Editor: Collaboration sounds vital in tackling environmental issues. Could you elaborate on how the provincial and federal governments are coordinating on this front?
Uzma Bukhari: Absolutely. We have a strategy in place that includes multi-departmental and cross-border coordination. The Foreign Office is integral in facilitating discussions with neighboring provinces. Including local communities in this conversation is essential as well. Awareness campaigns and public engagement are keys to navigating through these challenging times.
Time.news Editor: For readers concerned about air quality, what practical advice can you give regarding personal health during smog season?
Uzma Bukhari: My advice is straightforward: if the air quality index is high, limit outdoor activities, particularly for vulnerable groups, like children and the elderly. Use air purifiers indoors if possible, keep windows closed, and stay updated with government advisories. This situation requires not only government action but also individual responsibility toward community health.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Minister Bukhari, for your insights on both the airline industry and the environmental challenges facing Lahore. It’s clear that strategic planning and community involvement will play significant roles in addressing these issues.
Uzma Bukhari: Thank you for the opportunity to communicate these pressing issues. Collaboration and informed action are the way forward for Punjab.
This interview highlights the key issues surrounding PIA’s privatization and the smog problem in Lahore, emphasizing the government’s role in creating favorable business conditions and addressing public health concerns.