Capital’s air quality reaches hazardous levels

The air quality of the capital was recorded as unhealthy for citizens with breathing issues as a result of hazardous pollutants being let out into the air since November when the ratio was first recorded above permissible limits.

The data released by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Wednesday showed high value of particulate matter of 2.5 microns (PM 2.5).

According to a spokesperson, the particulate matter was not only higher than the National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS) of 35 micrograms per meter cube, it was above the World Health Organisation (WHO) fine particulate matter of 2.5 microns 24 hours mean of 20 micrograms per meter cube.

The pollution level was recorded at 40.03 micrograms per cubic meter, exceeding the permissible standards, the spokesperson noted. The WHO claimed in a report that air pollution causes premature deaths as PM 2.5 is found to be a hazardous pollutant which can penetrate into the bloodstream through the lungs.

As per the daily ambient air quality report of EPA for the capital, the 24 hours average ratio of nitrogen dioxide and Sulphur dioxide are 29.53 and 40.76 micrograms per cubic meter, respectively.

The spokesperson shared that the data was recorded by calibrated air quality monitors fixed at particular positions with proper readings.

However, concentrations of PM 2.5 during the evening times were recorded to be higher whereas the overall ambient air quality of the federal capital was unhealthy as of Wednesday. Any other data from any source presenting ambient air quality of Islamabad was neither verified nor approved by the EPA, the report stated.

The health experts advised patients of heart and lungs diseases, older adults, children and teenager to avoid prolonged outdoor exertion. They should wear face masks or coverings and, in case of any respiratory issue, immediately contact a health physician or doctor.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 17^th, 2020.