Maryam Aurangzeb Urges Action Against Lahore Smog
In Pakistan’s Punjab province, Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has called for action to combat the worsening air quality in Lahore. Despite efforts, she noted it could take 8-10 years to eliminate smog. At a press conference on the Anti-Smog Action Plan, she highlighted hotspots in Lahore affected by methane clouds and heat islands. Out of 45,000 motorcycles, 1,800 emit smoke, along with 100,000 vehicles, 1,200 kilns, and 60,800 industrial units, impacting the city’s 15 million residents. Lahore experiences 275 days of unhealthy Air Quality Index (AQI) levels annually, with temperatures rising by 3.2 degrees Celsius.
Pollution Concerns in Karachi
A study by a senior expert has raised concerns about air pollution’s impact on respiratory health in Karachi. The study, titled ‘Impact of fine particulate pollution exposures on respiratory health in a mega city of Pakistan’, shows particulate matter (PM2.5) causing respiratory issues. High levels of black carbon, sulphate, ammonium, and nitrate contribute to poor air quality. Prof Zafar Fatimi from AKU reported a 25-30% increase in hospital admissions and ER visits, with vulnerable groups including children under one year, adults over 65, and those with compromised immunity.
Doubts Revealed
Maryam Aurangzeb -: Maryam Aurangzeb is a senior minister in Pakistan’s Punjab province. She is involved in addressing environmental issues like smog in Lahore.
Lahore -: Lahore is a major city in Pakistan, known for its rich history and culture. It is currently facing severe air pollution problems.
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like a thick fog. It is harmful to health and is caused by pollution from vehicles and factories.
Punjab province -: Punjab is a province in Pakistan, similar to a state in India. It is one of the most populous regions in the country.
Air quality -: Air quality refers to how clean or polluted the air is. Poor air quality can cause health problems, especially for people with breathing issues.
Karachi -: Karachi is another major city in Pakistan. Like Lahore, it is also facing problems with air pollution, affecting people’s health.
Respiratory health -: Respiratory health is about how well our lungs and breathing system work. Pollution can make it hard to breathe and cause illnesses.
Vulnerable groups -: Vulnerable groups are people who are more likely to be affected by pollution, like young children, older adults, and those with weak immune systems.
