Winter and allergy

The winter season brings with it the threat of allergy which most people in Pakistan will eventually develop due to effects caused by global warming and climate change. Many are unaware that allergic conditions are aggravated due to low air quality and increased pollution to a point where it can become life-threatening.

The city of Karachi remains carpeted under thick smoke produced by industrial sites for most of the day. Citizens have no choice but to inhale all the toxic chemical into their body. Those that are prone to allergy often need to be rushed to the hospital, wheezing and sneezing along the way. Many are given oxygen while others are treated with medication. This cycle continues every year, and will do so unless the authorities decide to do something about it. At present, the Environment Protection Department has launched a campaign against environmental pollution. Till now they have asked the owners of factories, mills and kilns to keep their units closed or install zig-zag technology immediately to prevent further increase in air pollution. However, this is simply not enough.

The country needs to move towards more sustainable systems if any significant change is to be made. At the same time industrial companies need to be fined heavily for producing toxic waste. Only by reducing pollution can we give our citizens a high-quality life they deserve.

Rehmat Baloch

Turbat