Climate change, health risks escalate amid surge in PoGB deforestation
Deforestation in Gilgit-Baltistan: A Growing Environmental and Health Crisis
In Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB), the increasing cutting of trees for firewood is worsening environmental challenges and creating a public health crisis. As residents face harsh winters, forests are rapidly depleting, contributing to climate change and health risks.
Environmental Impact
Deforestation is causing glaciers to melt and temperatures to fluctuate. The removal of trees, crucial for soil stability, heightens the risk of landslides in the mountainous region. A local resident emphasized the urgent need to control deforestation to prevent further environmental deterioration.
Health Concerns
Burning wood and plastic materials for warmth creates smog, degrading air quality and increasing respiratory diseases like asthma. Khadim Hussain, a PoGB resident, highlighted the health risks, including breathing difficulties and eye irritation, caused by indoor pollution.
Call for Action
Residents and environmental experts urge the government to take immediate action to address deforestation and pollution. Without intervention, the region faces worsening environmental and public health crises.
Doubts Revealed
Deforestation
Deforestation is when people cut down trees in large numbers. This can harm the environment because trees help clean the air and provide homes for animals.
Gilgit-Baltistan
Gilgit-Baltistan is a region in the northern part of Pakistan, near the Himalayas. It is known for its beautiful mountains and glaciers.
Glaciers
Glaciers are large masses of ice that move slowly over land. They are important because they store fresh water and help keep the Earth's climate stable.
Landslide
A landslide is when rocks and soil suddenly slide down a hill or mountain. This can happen when there are no trees to hold the soil in place.
Climate Change
Climate change is when the Earth's weather patterns change over a long time. It can cause problems like more extreme weather and rising sea levels.
Smog
Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like fog. It is harmful to breathe and can cause health problems like coughing and difficulty breathing.
Respiratory Diseases
Respiratory diseases affect the lungs and breathing. They can be caused by pollution and make it hard for people to breathe properly.
Khadim Hussain
Khadim Hussain is a person living in Gilgit-Baltistan who is experiencing health problems due to poor air quality. He represents the local people affected by deforestation and pollution.
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