Punjab Assembly passes resolutions on anti-terror efforts, population growth and smog

LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday unanimously adopted a series of resolutions during a wide-ranging sitting, beginning with a tribute to Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos and later turning to concerns over rapid population growth and environmental challenges.

The House passed a resolution marking one year since the completion of Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, paying tribute to the armed forces, security institutions and national leadership for their role in efforts against terrorism. Lawmakers said the operation reflected the continuing national commitment that emerged after the Army Public School tragedy, and stressed that coordinated and sustained action remained necessary to eradicate militancy from the country.

The resolution also recognised the contribution of political leadership and state institutions in preserving stability and reinforcing internal security.

Population growth concerns highlighted

Members then unanimously approved another resolution focused on the country’s rising population and the strain it is placing on national resources. Lawmakers warned that unchecked population growth was increasing pressure on education, healthcare, employment, housing and infrastructure.

The resolution called for a comprehensive strategy to manage population growth. It urged the expansion of family planning services, stronger public awareness efforts, and increased investment in women’s education, health and economic empowerment. It also emphasised the use of modern technology in resource planning and recommended the creation of a special committee to oversee implementation through defined timelines and budget allocations.

Smog measures and sports support

The assembly also adopted a resolution commending the Punjab government’s measures to address smog and environmental pollution. The House noted steps including regulation of industrial emissions, action to control vehicular pollution and efforts to discourage crop residue burning as part of broader environmental protection measures.

Another resolution was passed in support of cyclist Muattar Manzoor for her performance at the Punjab Pink Games 2026. Members urged the government to provide her with advanced training facilities and institutional support to help promote sports talent in the province.

Proceedings begin after delay

Earlier, the sitting began after a delay of one hour and 25 minutes under the chair of Deputy Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Channar.

The proceedings saw tense exchanges during the question hour, when members raised objections over the repeated submission of duplicate and repetitive questions. They described the practice as a misuse of parliamentary time and called for stricter procedural scrutiny.

Provincial Law Minister Rana Iqbal also criticised opposition members for submitting questions and then remaining absent from the House, and suggested that such questions should be ignored.