UNICEF urges Pakistan to address hazardous air pollution threatening 11 million children
Islamabad: UNICEF's Pakistan representative, Abdullah Fadil, has raised urgent concerns about the severe health risks faced by approximately 11 million children in Punjab, who are currently exposed to hazardous air. Fadil appealed to the Pakistan government to implement immediate measures to mitigate the worsening air pollution, which is particularly endangering young children and expectant mothers.
Fadil stated, "I am extremely concerned about the well-being of young children who are forced to breathe polluted, toxic air," noting that over 11 million children under five are at risk in the most affected districts. He added that even before this year's severe smog, air pollution accounted for 12% of deaths among children under five, a figure likely to rise given the current crisis.
Highlighting additional dangers, Fadil mentioned that pregnant women exposed to polluted air face increased risks of premature births, respiratory issues, and low birth weights in infants. He stressed the need for urgent intervention to secure the health, education, and well-being of Pakistan's children, asserting that clean air is an essential right for every child.
According to Dawn, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Punjab has reached critical levels, with Sialkot and six other districts recording AQI scores above 400, and one district reaching a staggering 774. In response, local authorities have closed schools until November 17 and restricted public access to parks, zoos, playgrounds, and museums to reduce exposure.
UNICEF's Islamabad office also reported unprecedented pollution levels in cities like Lahore and Multan, with hospitals admitting numerous patients, including young children, suffering from air pollution-related ailments.
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Karnataka: SP’s gunman among two arrested for extorting money from rice smuggler
Ballari (Karnataka) (PTI): An armed police constable serving as the district superintendent of police’s personal gunman, along with his accomplice, was arrested for allegedly extorting money from a rice smuggler, police said on Friday.
Devaraj, who had been serving as the SP’s gunman for the past four and a half years, was identified as the mastermind behind the incident.
Following an investigation, Devaraj and his accomplice Sairam were arrested on May 6, while efforts are underway to nab a third accused, Gadilinga, a practising advocate in Ballari, who is absconding, police said.
The matter came to light after a complaint was filed by Sharabappa, a habitual offender allegedly involved in illegal rice transport, they added.
According to police, the incident occurred on the intervening night of April 27 and 28, when a group of masked men intercepted Sharabappa’s rice-laden vehicles near the Moka forest area.
The accused allegedly introduced themselves as members of an “SP squad”, threatened to seize the vehicles and file criminal cases, and demanded money to avoid legal action.
Police said the accused initially demanded Rs 5 lakh and later extorted around Rs 3 lakh from the complainant.
Investigation revealed that Devaraj was the main person involved in demanding and collecting the money, while Sairam and Gadilinga were also involved in the offence. Sairam was allegedly involved in similar activities earlier as well.
Devaraj and Sairam were arrested under Sections 308(2) (extortion) and 3(5) (common intention) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Police also seized the extorted cash, the four-wheeler, and mobile phones allegedly used in the crime. Efforts are underway to trace Gadilinga.
Addressing a press conference, Ballari Superintendent of Police Suman D Pennekar described the incident as a serious offence that has tarnished the image of the police department.
"There is no official ‘SP squad’ or ‘DSP squad’ operating in the district. Such labels are often misused by impostors or corrupt individuals to commit extortion," the SP clarified.
She said no involvement of other police officers has been found so far.
Departmental proceedings have been initiated against Devaraj, and suspension proceedings are underway. The SP added that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in such offences.
Police said Sharabappa, the complainant, is a known habitual offender involved in illegal rice smuggling, and several cases have already been registered against him in the Moka and Peddihalli areas. A separate case has also been registered against him in connection with rice smuggling on the night of the incident.
Authorities are also exploring the possibility of initiating externment proceedings against him under applicable legal provisions.
The SP urged the public to report any extortion attempts by persons claiming to be part of an “SP squad”, assuring that the identity of informants will be kept confidential.
