The battle for breath: Is Lahore becoming unlivable?

The air quality in Lahore has deteriorated to dangerous levels, with pollution increasing day by day.

In October, Lahore frequently topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities. The dusty environment not only reduced visibility but also led to a rise in illnesses among residents, creating a public health crisis.

In response, the Punjab Environmental Department is intensifying its efforts to combat this pressing issue. To control the escalating smog, a "green lockdown" has been imposed in various areas of Lahore. This lockdown restricts construction activities, the use of commercial generators, and open barbecues in affected zones, aiming to reduce the sources of pollution that contribute to the city’s deteriorating air quality.

Wasim Ahsan Cheema, the Director of Administration at the Punjab Environmental Department, has outlined the department’s multifaceted approach. He stated that they are collaborating with other governmental bodies to formulate immediate, mid-term, and long-term policies to address the pollution crisis.

Strict actions are being taken against factories that emit smoke, polluting vehicles, brick kilns, and the burning of agricultural waste.

Cheema noted that "thanks to timely government measures", the intensity of smog and air pollution in Lahore is less this year compared to previous years.

Effects on health

However, the health impacts of this pollution are alarming. There has been a concerning increase in respiratory, skin, and eye diseases among the population. According to pulmonologist Professor Khalid Waheed, the number of patients in Punjab, especially in Lahore, is rising daily due to smog.

He reported a significant surge in patients suffering from respiratory issues, with the effects of smog being particularly severe on vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children.

Professor Waheed expressed serious concerns that if the situation continues unchecked, Lahore may become unlivable in the coming years and could even be declared a disaster zone.

He emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy focused on protecting children, warning that without prompt action against smog, future generations may face severe complications in their lung development. The urgency of the situation calls for collective action from the government, local communities, and individuals to ensure a healthier future for Lahore’s residents.