Islamabad, March 11 (Alliance News): Tens of millions of Pakistanis endured the worst winter smog season in years, with air pollution levels soaring 20 times above safe limits, according to data analyzed.
The 2024-25 smog season began a month earlier in October and lasted longer than usual, affecting even cities typically less impacted by pollution.
Lahore’s 14 million residents spent six months inhaling hazardous PM2.5 particles at alarming concentrations, while Karachi and Islamabad faced 120 days of toxic air.
Factory and vehicle emissions, coupled with crop burning and shifting climate patterns, exacerbated the crisis.
Authorities in Punjab declared a “war on smog,” expanding air monitoring and enforcing emissions regulations on industries and brick kilns.
However, environmentalists argue that efforts remain inadequate, with ineffective measures such as anti-smog towers failing to curb pollution.
Young climate activists have taken legal action against the government, demanding stricter pollution controls. Meanwhile, experts emphasize the urgent need to reduce emissions, particularly from transport, which accounts for 83% of Lahore’s carbon output.
Pakistan has pledged to increase electric vehicle adoption, but affordability remains a challenge, with 40% of the population living in poverty.
The country had a glimpse of cleaner air during the COVID-19 lockdown, but economic struggles have since taken priority over environmental concerns.
