Zoha Hanif
B.S 5th semester
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
AIR POLLUTION
Abstract
Air pollution in Pakistan has
reached critical levels, particularly
in major cities like Lahore, Karachi,
and Islamabad, due to a mix of
industrial emissions, vehicular
exhaust, agricultural practices, and
urbanization. This case study
explores the primary causes,
impacts, and the government’s
response to the pollution crisis.
Additionally, factual data about the Introduction
effects on public health and the Pakistan had the fifth most polluted air in the world in 2016, due
environment is provided, along with mostly to vehicular and industrial emissions and crop burning.
potential solutions such as stricter The district of Lahore suffers the worst, with the average
regulations, cleaner energy residents losing 5.3 years off their lives, relative to the WHO
adoption, and public transportation
guidelines. The combination of these factors is creating a public
improvements. This research also
health emergency that disproportionately affects vulnerable
highlights future challenges if the
populations, including children and the elderly. This case study
issue is left unaddressed and
seeks to analyze the causes and consequences of air pollution in
predicts possible systemic failures.
The study concludes by offering a
Pakistan, discuss government responses, and offer potential
perspective on sustainable solutions to mitigate its harmful effects
solutions and the importance of
stronger policy enforcement
FACTUAL DATA AND ORGANIZED CONTEXT
Air Quality index:
According to air quality monitoring data, Lahore recorded
an AQI level of over 300 in several instances during 2023,
classifying it as “hazardous.” These levels pose serious
health risks to the general population, including respiratory
and cardiovascular diseases. Karachi 3 and Peshawar also
frequently experience AQI levels that exceed safe limits.
Health impacts:
PREMATURE DEATHS: In 2021, an estimated 135,000 premature deaths
were attributed to air pollution in Pakistan, according to the Global
Burden of Disease report.
RESPIRATORY DISEASES: Over 22 million people in Pakistan suffer from
respiratory diseases exacerbated by air pollution, with hospitals
reporting spikes in cases during peak smog periods.
Economic impact:
The World Bank estimated that Pakistan loses around 6% of its GDP annually due
to the economic costs of air pollution, which include lost productivity, healthcare
costs, and reduced agricultural output. This translates to over $12 billion
annually, a significant burden for a developing economy.
Sources of Pollution:
VEHICULAR EMISSIONS: Contribute about 45% to overall urban air pollution, primarily from older
vehicles and diesel engines.
AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES: Stubble burning in Punjab contributes heavily to seasonal smog,
particularly in the winter.
INDUSTRIAL EMISSIONS: Major contributors are cement factories, brick kilns, and steel mills,
responsible for around 25% of particulate pollution in major cities.
PREDICTION AND POSSIBLE FAILURES
If Pakistan does not implement more strict air pollution control measures, several
consequences could unfold:
1. INCREASED PUBLIC HEALTH BURDEN: Without immediate intervention, the number of
premature deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases will continue to rise. Hospital
admissions related to asthma, COPD, and lung cancer are expected to increase exponentially
by 2030.
2. ECONOMIC INSTABILITY: Continued inaction could severely affect Pakistan’s economy.
Agriculture, which contributes 22% to Pakistan’s GDP, is already being damaged by acid rain
and pollutants, and this will worsen. Additionally, healthcare costs will strain government
resources.
3. CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT: Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate change, and continued
emission of black carbon and GHGs will contribute to regional climate shifts, including erratic
rainfall patterns and increased flooding.
4. INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION AND TRADE: As global efforts toward sustainability and
reducing carbon footprints intensify, Pakistan could face trade sanctions or boycotts from
countries prioritizing green policies if it does not curb its pollution levels.
POSSIBLE SOLLUTIONS:
1. STRENGTHENING LEGISLATION: The government must implement and enforce stricter
emission standards for both .vehicles and industries. Regular inspections and penalties for
non-compliance should be routine.
2. PROMOTING CLEAN ENERGY: Pakistan’s energy sector remains reliant on coal and oil.
Transitioning toward renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower could
significantly reduce pollution. The government’s EV policy could also play a key role in this
transition if it is implemented effectively.
3. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENTS: Investing in cleaner, more efficient public
transportation systems will reduce the reliance on private vehicles. Cities such as Lahore could
expand their metro bus services and introduce electric buses.
4. PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS: Educating the public about the health risks associated
with air pollution and encouraging behavioral changes (e.g., reducing vehicle use, using air
purifiers, wearing masks) could reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.
5. ADOPTING CLEANER TECHNOLOGIES: Modernizing brick kilns with zigzag technology, which
reduces emissions by 40%, andencouraging industries to switch to cleaner fuel options are
essential steps.
CONCLUSIONS:
Air pollution in Pakistan poses a serious threat to public health, the environment, and the economy.
While the government has made strides with policies like the Electric Vehicle Policy and programs
such as the Pakistan Clean Air Program, but there is a need of more aggressive actions . This
includes stringent enforcement of emission standards, greater investment in renewable energy,
and public education. Failure to address the air pollution crisis will result in greater health,
environmental, and economic damages. Strong political will and coordinated efforts between
government agencies, industries, and the public are essential to mitigating this growing crisis.
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