LCCI Acting President Zeshan Khalil here said that pollution could not be tackled until genuine reasons were identified.

Departments concerned were blaming the industry of pollution but ground realities were quite different he claimed. He mentioned that deforestation, vehicles fuel emissions, adulteration in fuels, power plants, infrastructure development projects and garbage and wood burning were adding to pollution by releasing hazardous particles into the air.

He said that these particles could also have horrible effects on human health.

The LCCI acting president said that deforestation was affecting the atmosphere badly as these acted as a shield against greenhouse gases, asserting that forests and trees sustain and protect nature, provide clean air and water, safeguard biodiversity and act as a buffer against climate change.

He said that for many people, forest also offer food, shelter and employment. He said that deforestation in Pakistan seemed small, but actually was a big issue as it was not only leaving adverse impacts on environment, but also hitting the economy hard.

He suggested that instead of closing industries, the department concerned should collaborate with private sector to get rid of pollution.

He said that government, private sector and all segments of society should join hands to tackle the issue of shrinking forests in the country.

He said power generation should mainly be done through hydel sources to reduce environment pollution.