KARACHI:
Lahore, the city of gardens, is faced with an aggravating environmental problem. In the last two years, Lahore has ranked as the most polluted city in the world as its air quality has reached hazardous levels of 364 US-Air Quality Index (AQI). The smog situation usually emerges during the winter as the air can become loaded with the products of incomplete combustion such as nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide, etc.
Intense smog has affected daily activities in Lahore as offices and markets have been compelled to close for 2 to 3 days a week. The Punjab government declared Fridays and Saturdays as official school holidays to reduce the impact of smog on children. In the past, many dangerous accidents have occurred due to poor visibility on roads. Resultantly, all forms of transportation within and outside the city have been significantly limited to avoid any accidents. Many people are experiencing difficulties in breathing and eye rashes. Deteriorating air quality also causes long-term health problems including asthma, increased risk of heart and lung diseases, cardiac arrest, etc.
The relevant authorities including municipal administration should take urgent steps to address the issue by limiting the operating hours of factories and shopping markets. This will help reduce emissions. People should be discouraged from burning waste and other items. Farmers across Punjab should be told to avoid burning waste as it is intensifying pollution in the province.
Mohsin Mumtaz
Chiniot
Published in The Express Tribune, December 20th, 2022.
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