AIR QUALITY AND POLLUTION IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Air quality in Pakistan has significantly deteriorated due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and increasing vehicular emissions. Major cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad face high levels of air pollution, exacerbated by industrial emissions, crop burning, dust from construction, and low-quality fuel for power generation and domestic heating. Seasonal smog, particularly during winter months, worsens the air quality, with dangerous concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) posing severe health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Despite governmental efforts, such as introducing cleaner fuel standards and promoting afforestation campaigns, enforcement remains weak, limiting progress in addressing pollution. This escalating environmental crisis severely affects public health, economic productivity, and ecosystem damage. Addressing air pollution in Pakistan requires stronger regulatory frameworks, public awareness campaigns, and investment in clean energy solutions to mitigate long-term environmental and health impacts.