Environmental pollution puts lives in peril

Brick kilns and factories were banned from operating in the province to curb environmental pollution

SIALKOT:  

Environmental pollution and smog has adversely affected the health of residents in Sialkot, Express News reported. The number of patients suffering from diseases is steadily growing by the day.

Tall claims previously made by the Environment Protection Department (EPD) have fallen flat. An abundance of smog, produced when smoke from brick kilns mixes with the atmosphere, has caused citizens to contract serious ailments.

Like other cities, the responsibility of clearing up and curbing atmospheric pollution had been entrusted to EPD. However, due to officials’ apathy, the lives of many are now in danger.  In addition to this, smog is also responsible for the increase in traffic accidents.

Previously, brick kilns and factories were banned from operating in the province, a move which was meant to curb environmental pollution and enforced by EPD. “Unfortunately, despite the fact that notifications were issued and ads were run in newspapers, kilns and factories in the area have still not ceased operations.” articulated one resident.

On Bhawal Road near Chak 27, influential people are using existing kilns to manufacture coal by burning wood. These factories are operating day and night and are spreading deadly fumes in the area which is primarily residential. Further, traffic in the area has also been severely affected.

“Despite this, the environment department is still mum on the issue,” said one of the residents.

Residents have appealed to the commissioner and deputy commissioner to take notice of the issue so that people living in the area can be safeguarded against the increasing number of diseases and traffic accidents.