Smog-related health issues affect 68% of Pakistanis: Ipsos Pakistan Survey

A new survey conducted by Ipsos Pakistan reveals that 68% of Pakistanis are experiencing health problems due to smog, highlighting the severe impact of air pollution on public health.

According to the report, the most commonly reported health issues include coughing (68%), flu (66%), difficulty breathing (37%), and eye irritation (29%).

The highest prevalence of smog-related health problems was recorded in Punjab at 77%.

Within Punjab, Rawalpindi and Islamabad reported the highest rates, with 87% of respondents experiencing respiratory illnesses, followed by Lahore at 84%.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 76% of respondents in Peshawar also reported respiratory issues linked to smog, further underscoring the widespread impact of air pollution across the country.

The findings highlight an urgent need for measures to combat smog and protect public health.

Recently. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine met in Islamabad on November 28 to discuss joint initiatives aimed at tackling the worsening smog problem in Punjab and the capital, as well as advancing sustainable development.

The smog, caused by toxic pollutants, has engulfed several cities in Punjab, with Lahore and Multan being the hardest hit. In Multan, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached record levels, surpassing 2,000 twice in recent weeks.

The hazardous air quality has triggered an emergency response in both Lahore and Multan, while Islamabad, too, has felt the effects, with air quality in the federal capital being classified as "very unhealthy" for the past two weeks.