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Pakistan's Punjab province is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, prompting authorities to take drastic measures to protect its citizens, particularly children. Record-high air pollution levels in the province, especially in Lahore, have led to widespread health concerns, with doctors reporting a surge in patients seeking treatment for respiratory illnesses. The situation has become so dire that schools in several areas have been ordered to close until November 17, with students shifting to online learning. This decision reflects the urgent need to minimize exposure to hazardous air quality, particularly for vulnerable populations like children.
The severity of the smog crisis is evident in the alarming air quality index (AQI) readings. Lahore, a megacity with a population exceeding 10 million, registered a staggering AQI of 1,165, far surpassing the safe limit and ranking it as one of the most polluted cities globally. This hazardous air quality has prompted officials to warn of a potential complete lockdown if residents fail to adhere to safety measures like wearing face masks. Medical professionals report a significant increase in patients presenting with respiratory problems, including coughs and irritated eyes, highlighting the direct impact of the polluted air on human health.
In response to the escalating crisis, the Punjab government has established a “smog war room,” bringing together staff from various departments to coordinate efforts to combat the pollution. The war room will focus on addressing various contributing factors, including controlling the burning of agricultural waste, managing traffic congestion, and analyzing data to inform strategies for tackling the issue. This initiative underscores the multi-faceted nature of the problem and the need for a comprehensive approach involving various stakeholders. The government has also explored the possibility of inducing artificial rainfall to cleanse the air.
The escalating smog crisis in Punjab is not an isolated incident. Neighboring India is also battling severe air pollution, particularly in its northern regions, leading to speculation that cross-border pollution is contributing to the problem in Pakistan. The Punjab government has raised this issue with the Indian authorities, seeking collaboration to address the transboundary nature of the crisis. The severe air pollution in South Asia during the winter months is a recurring phenomenon, exacerbated by factors like cold air trapping dust, emissions, and smoke from agricultural fires. The impact on children is particularly worrisome, with UNICEF highlighting that nearly 600 million children in the region are exposed to high levels of air pollution, contributing to a significant proportion of childhood pneumonia deaths.
Source: Pakistan’s Punjab shuts schools, sets up ‘smog war room’ over air pollution