Pakistan’s major cities, Lahore and Karachi, have been ranked among the top three most polluted cities in the world as the country faces an ongoing smog crisis. According to a Swiss air quality monitor, Lahore led the global Air Quality Index (AQI) with a staggering 266, categorizing the air quality as “very unhealthy.” Karachi followed closely in third place with an AQI of 216, underscoring the severity of the issue.
Prolonged Smog in Lahore
Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural and economic hub, has been grappling with hazardous smog for over two months. This persistent air pollution, described as the worst in the region, poses significant health risks to the city’s population. Experts attribute the crisis to a combination of emissions from low-grade fuel used in factories and vehicles, as well as the seasonal burning of crop residues by farmers.
The situation is further exacerbated by cooler winter temperatures and stagnant winds, which trap toxic particles in the air. These conditions have made Lahore a glaring example of urban air pollution in South Asia.
Karachi’s Unusual Decline in Air Quality
While Lahore frequently battles severe air pollution, Karachi’s current situation marks a significant departure from its usual air quality patterns. The port city, which had largely remained in moderate AQI ranges in the past, crossed into the “very unhealthy” category last week.
The toxic PM2.5 levels in Karachi—measuring fine particulate matter harmful to human health—were found to be 27.8 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limits. Although the AQI in Karachi dropped slightly to 173 on Friday, it remained in the “unhealthy” range, signaling ongoing concerns for public health.
South Asia’s Pollution Crisis
The pollution crisis is not limited to Pakistan. Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, ranked as the second-most polluted city, highlighting the broader issue of air quality degradation in South Asia. The region is among the most densely populated and industrialized in the world, making it particularly susceptible to pollution-related challenges.
Health Risks and Alarming Trends
Prolonged exposure to poor air quality is known to have severe health implications. According to the WHO, toxic air pollution can lead to strokes, heart diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses. The rising levels of smog and pollution in Lahore and Karachi threaten millions of lives, with children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions being the most vulnerable.
The Met Office has forecasted a further drop in temperatures in Karachi in the coming weeks. This, combined with stagnant air conditions and high pollutant levels, is expected to exacerbate the crisis.
Call for Urgent Action
Environmental experts and activists are calling for immediate measures to combat the pollution crisis. Recommendations include stricter enforcement of emission controls, promoting cleaner energy alternatives, and addressing agricultural burning practices. Additionally, urban planning solutions, such as expanding green spaces and improving public transport systems, are vital for long-term sustainability.
With Lahore and Karachi grappling with unprecedented levels of pollution, addressing this crisis requires coordinated action at both local and national levels. The health and well-being of millions depend on urgent and decisive steps to mitigate the smog’s effects and prevent future crises.
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