Pakistan has been ranked third in global pollution for 2024, facing severe smog that has impacted health. Approximately 70% of its population reports health issues from smog, particularly in Lahore, Multan, and Peshawar. Experts call for urgent policy changes as pollution levels remain dangerously high, with average PM2.5 concentrations significantly exceeding safe limits.
According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, Pakistan ranks as the third most polluted country globally, enduring a severe smog crisis that has had detrimental effects on public health. The cities of Lahore, Multan, and Peshawar are among those most significantly affected. Reports indicate that approximately 70% of Pakistan’s population has experienced health problems attributed to smog, prompting urgent calls for policy intervention.
The report, compiled by Swiss air technology company IQAir, places Pakistan behind Chad and Bangladesh in pollution rankings. The country’s average PM2.5 concentration stands at 73.7 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³), which is nearly fifteen times higher than the World Health Organization’s safe limit. This alarming statistic underscores the severe air quality crisis faced by the nation.
In 2023, Punjab witnessed unprecedented smog levels, leading authorities to declare it a “calamity.” Almost two million citizens required medical assistance due to pollution-related health concerns. In response, the government implemented lockdowns and temporarily closed schools in the most impacted regions. Despite such drastic measures, air pollution levels in Pakistan have not improved since 2023.
Among Central and South Asian countries, Pakistan ranks second in pollution levels, trailing only behind Bangladesh, with Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, and Sialkot being identified as exceptionally polluted cities. Major contributors to this situation include biomass burning, industrial emissions, vehicle pollution, as well as dust from brick kilns and construction activities.
There has been a noticeable increase in pollution rates in major cities like Peshawar, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore since 2023. Nevertheless, Karachi has recorded some improvement in air quality, with PM2.5 levels decreasing from over 55 μg/m³ to approximately 46 μg/m³. Notably, five cities in Pakistan recorded PM2.5 levels exceeding 200 μg/m³ in November 2023, indicating extremely hazardous air conditions.
A survey conducted by Ipsos revealed that around 70% of the populace is suffering from health issues due to smog, raising alarming questions regarding the country’s air quality. Environmental experts emphasize the need for immediate policy actions to address the escalating air pollution crisis and safeguard public health.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s situation as the third most polluted country globally reflects a significant public health crisis driven by worsening smog and pollution levels. With 70% of the population experiencing health problems and critical cities suffering from toxic air, there is an urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms to combat air pollution effectively. Without decisive action, the smog crisis is likely to continue impacting the health and well-being of millions.
Original Source: www.republicworld.com
