Battling the Invisible Foe: Lahore's Pollution Crisis Hits Children Hard
Gew News Pakistan

Battling the Invisible Foe: Lahore's Pollution Crisis Hits Children Hard

In the heart of Lahore, the pediatric emergency room is witnessing a surge in young patients, a distressing consequence of the city's escalating air pollution crisis. Parents, like Mohamad Qadeer, find themselves in a tense wait for treatment, holding nebulizing devices to their children's noses amidst the billow of steam, desperately seeking relief from polluted airways.

As temperatures dropped, Lahore became a victim of its own toxic smog, earning the dubious title of the world's worst air quality last year. Dr. Maria Iftikhar at Sir Ganga Ram hospital reveals the alarming truth: a 50% increase in pediatric patients due to respiratory issues exacerbated by poor air quality in the last month alone.

In a city once known for its gardens, the thick haze now engulfs Lahore, affecting the health of thousands of children. Dr. Iftikhar emphasizes the severity, stating, "It has gotten a lot worse than the previous years."

Parents like Mohamad and his wife, Shazma, attempt to protect their children with masks and outdoor restrictions. Still, the relentless coughing and fever persist, leaving them sleepless and anxious. The UNICEF warns that children are physiologically more vulnerable to air pollution, with their developing organs at greater risk.

Provincial health minister Dr. Javed Akram acknowledges the crisis, with hospitals on high alert and emergency resources allocated. Campaigns promoting masks and partial lockdowns have been initiated, but the root causes—crop burning, poor fuel quality, and industrial activities—require multifaceted solutions.

The provincial government explores cloud-seeding and collaborates with neighboring countries for evidence-based approaches. Dr. Akram underscores the urgency, stating, "Our pediatric hospitals are overwhelmed with the burden from respiratory issues…the most vulnerable are small children."

Let's raise awareness and unite for effective solutions to ensure a healthier future for Lahore's children.?

#AirPollution #ChildrensHealth #LahoreCrisis #PublicHealth #EnvironmentalAwareness #PollutionImpact #HealthEmergency #UNICEF #ClimateAction #CommunityHealth #CleanAirNow

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