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The city of Lahore in Pakistan has experienced an unprecedented surge in air pollution, reaching an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 1,900, a level six times higher than the threshold set by the World Health Organization (WHO). This dire situation has prompted the Pakistani government to take emergency measures, including school closures and work-from-home mandates, while also reaching out to the Indian government for dialogue on the issue.
The severe pollution levels, particularly the high concentration of PM2.5 pollutants, have raised concerns for public health. These fine particulate matter, exceeding 40 times the WHO's safe limit, can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer. The Pakistani government has urged citizens to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and minimize outdoor activities to protect their health.
Pakistan has attributed the alarming pollution levels to winds carrying pollutants from neighboring India. The Pakistani government has called for climate diplomacy, highlighting the need for regional and global cooperation to address the issue of transboundary air pollution. While acknowledging the role of natural phenomena, the statement underscores the need for collaborative efforts to mitigate the adverse impacts of pollution.
This situation mirrors the pollution crisis in northern India, where winters often see spikes in air pollution due to factors like the burning of crop residue and the use of coal-based power plants. The winter season, characterized by cold and dense air, traps emissions at ground level, exacerbating the problem. While Delhi's AQI reached 276 on Monday, significantly lower than Lahore's, it still remains concerning, highlighting the widespread air pollution challenge in the region.
The dire consequences of prolonged exposure to polluted air are evident in the reduced life expectancy of Lahore residents, estimated to be 7.5 years shorter than it would be otherwise. This grim statistic, based on research from the University of Chicago's Energy Policy Institute, underscores the urgent need for action to address the root causes of air pollution and protect public health.
The impact of air pollution extends beyond Lahore, affecting millions of children in South Asia. UNICEF reports that nearly 600 million children are exposed to high levels of air pollution, with half of childhood pneumonia deaths linked to air pollution. This highlights the need for comprehensive interventions, including policy changes, technological advancements, and public awareness campaigns, to combat the growing threat of air pollution.
Source: This Is The World's Most Polluted City, 6 Times Worse Than Delhi