KARACHI:
For the last several years, Lahore has been suffering from smog menace during the winter season. Each year, the intense smog brings daily routines to a halt compelling people to stay home due to low visibility and serious health risks. The problem of smog stems from the high levels of air pollution in the city, which intensifies in winter due to low rainfall and dry conditions.
One of the main causes of the rising levels of air pollution is the poisonous smoke emitted from the industries in the city. The brick kilns and farms scattered across the province also contribute to the emissions. The ever-increasing number of vehicles on the roads has increased vehicular emissions further reducing the air quality. Every year, more than 100,000 deaths across the country are reported due to air pollution-related illnesses. Therefore, the high levels of air pollution in Lahore are extremely alarming as it harms the environment and human health. Short-term health effects include bronchitis, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Whereas long-term impacts include heart and respiratory disease and lung cancer.
Despite being aware of Lahore’s worsening air quality, both the authorities and citizens have largely ignored the issue. Consequently, Lahore has consistently ranked as the most polluted city in the world. The relevant authorities should urge factories to switch to renewable energy. Citizens must use public transport to reduce vehicular emissions and vehicles should be tested for emissions. People should avoid burning waste materials. The rapidly deteriorating green belts of the city have also raised the problem. Therefore, afforestation drives must be undertaken to improve the city’s forest cover.
Azka Attique
Lahore
Published in The Express Tribune, November 16th, 2022.
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