SMOG IN LAHORE AND OTHER CITIES: A WORSENING ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS

In recent years, smog has become an annual environmental and health crisis in Lahore and several other major Pakistani and Indian cities. This dense air pollution, exacerbated by industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and seasonal agricultural burning, engulfs urban areas during the winter months, posing severe risks to public health and the environment. In Pakistan’s case, the primary contributors to smog are vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, agricultural residue burning, and seasonal weather patterns that trap pollutants near the ground. It is a complex mixture of pollutants, including chemical particles.

In cities like Lahore, where population density, traffic congestion, and industrial activity are high, these factors combine to create hazardous air quality levels, especially in the cooler months. Smog is not just a short-term nuisance but a growing environmental hazard with long-lasting impacts on health, productivity, and quality of life.

With rapid urbanization and population growth, vehicle ownership in Pakistan’s cities has increased significantly. Older vehicles, lack of emissions regulations, and a high reliance on fuels contribute heavily to smog by releasing pollutants.

Industrial zones around Lahore, Karachi, and Faisalabad release a substantial amount of pollutants. Brick kilns, in particular, are known for their high emissions and play a significant role in contributing to smog. Crop residue burning, particularly in Punjab (both in India and Pakistan), is a significant seasonal contributor to smog. After the harvest, farmers burn leftover grass, releasing large amounts of smoke, and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Combined with seasonal weather changes, these emissions get trapped, creating the dense, hazardous smog blanket.

Construction activities in cities like Lahore Without effective dust control measures, contribute to airborne particles add to the smog problem. Winter weather in Pakistan increase smog levels. Temperature decrease trap pollutants close to the ground, where they remain, reducing visibility and raising pollution levels. Low wind speeds and high humidity further worsen the smog, making it a persistent problem in the winter.

Smog poses serious health risks to residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Air pollution is a major public health concern, contributing to numerous health issues. The result is the diseases like asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses. ?Long-term exposure to pollutants in smog is linked to cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Chemical particles can enter the bloodstream and damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Exposure to pollutants weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Children, whose immune systems are still developing, are particularly at risk. The World Health Organization (WHO) has linked high levels of air pollution to increased mortality rates. Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to air pollution reduces life expectancy and raises the likelihood of early death from chronic health conditions. Emerging research also suggests that air pollution may have an impact on mental health, with links to conditions like depression, anxiety, and mental decline in older adults.?

Beyond its health implications, smog also affects Pakistan’s economy and environment. Air pollution harms crops by reducing photosynthesis, stunting growth, and affecting crop yields. This can lead to food insecurity and economic losses for the agriculture sector, a major contributor to Pakistan’s economy.

The rise in respiratory illnesses and other smog-related health issues increases the burden on Pakistan’s healthcare system. Treating diseases caused by air pollution incurs high costs and reduces productivity due to increased sick days and decreased workforce efficiency. Smog has damaging effects on ecosystems, particularly forests, rivers, and lakes. Smog reduces visibility, leading to hazardous driving conditions and disruptions in transportation. This has economic implications, as delays in transport affect business operations, tourism, and daily life.

Tackling smog requires a multi-dimensional approach involving government policy, public awareness, and technological innovations. Enforcing stricter emission standards for vehicles and promoting cleaner fuel alternatives can significantly reduce pollution. Introducing electric vehicles and incentivizing the use of public transportation can help lessen traffic-related emissions.

Implementing stricter emission regulations for industries and incentivizing the adoption of cleaner technologies can reduce pollutants from factories and brick kilns. Switching to modern, cleaner kiln technology has shown promising results in other countries. Farmers can be incentivized to adopt sustainable methods for crop residue management, such as turning crop residue into biomass or fertilizer instead of burning it. Financial and technical support from the government can encourage these practices.

Trees and plants act as natural air filters, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. Expanding green spaces in cities can help reduce smog and improve air quality. Programs like urban afforestation and vertical gardens can also have a positive impact. Educating the public about the dangers of smog and promoting practices to reduce individual emissions, like carpooling and reducing energy consumption, can encourage more eco-friendly behaviors. Installing air quality monitoring systems in cities and providing real-time updates can help citizens take protective measures during periods of high pollution. Awareness campaigns can inform the public about avoiding outdoor activities on high-smog days.