The Devastating Impact of Air Pollution in Punjab, Pakistan
Worsening air pollution has taken a heavy toll on the residents of Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province, with an estimated 1.8 million people falling ill in the past month alone. The situation has reached such a critical point that schools across the province have been forced to close for five days to protect the health of children.
A Health Crisis Unfolds
Punjab, home to a population of 127 million, has been grappling with a severe smog problem for the past month. According to Ahsan Riaz, a spokesperson for the health department, over 1.8 million individuals sought medical attention at hospitals and clinics in smog-affected districts, with respiratory issues and eye irritation being the most common complaints.
Earlier reports had suggested that tens of thousands of people were treated for smog-related ailments, but the actual number turned out to be significantly higher, overwhelming healthcare facilities in the region.
A Drastic Response
The decision to close all schools in Punjab comes after authorities had already shut down educational institutions in 18 smog-affected districts. The toxic smog, which has blanketed Lahore and 17 other districts since October, prompted the government to also close parks and museums for a period of 10 days.
Officials have advised the public to limit outdoor activities and unnecessary travel, as the record levels of smog have led to a surge in respiratory illnesses and eye infections.
A Growing Concern
The severity of the situation was further highlighted by the UN children’s agency, which warned that the health of 11 million children in Punjab was at risk due to air pollution. Experts now consider the pollution crisis in Pakistan to be akin to a fifth season, reflecting the alarming regularity and intensity of the problem in recent years.
Urgent Measures and Challenges
The Environmental Protection Department in Punjab identified Multan as the most polluted city in the province, with air quality index readings exceeding 700 – well above the hazardous threshold of 300. Despite mandatory mask-wearing orders, compliance has been low among the populace.
In response to the crisis, the government is exploring innovative solutions such as inducing artificial rainfall to help alleviate the pollution levels and improve air quality in the region.
Conclusion
The escalating air pollution crisis in Punjab, Pakistan, underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the root causes of environmental degradation and protect public health. With millions of lives at stake, decisive action and sustainable solutions are imperative to mitigate the devastating impact of smog on communities.
FAQs
1. What are the main health concerns associated with the smog in Punjab?
- Respiratory-related diseases
- Eye infections
2. How is the government responding to the pollution crisis?
The government is considering measures such as inducing artificial rainfall to combat the pollution levels.