Smog Crisis in Lahore & Cross-Border Impact on Environment
Recently, the air in Lahore has changed a lot. It’s covered in dense smog. Breathe and even see people are struggling. Much of it is from local pollution and a little on top of that from across the border in India. Visibility is down to only 800 meters. This is a serious reminder that every environmental issue requires cooperation from both sides.
Lahore’s smog isn’t just an annoyance. It’s a real health hazard. They can breathe problems, eye irritation and long term health effects. Smog is filled with harmful particles such as PM2.5, experts say. Because these tiny particles can infiltrate deep into the lungs, or even get into the bloodstream, they are extremely dangerous. Long term exposure to PM2.5 ‘may cause’ heart and lung diseases, the World Health Organization says. This is not just a problem with people with health issues already.
Read more: Smog Crisis in Lahore Ends Outdoor Play for School Kids
Agricultural burning is one major cause of this smog. This happens in India Pakistan. Farmers burn crop residues for clearing of their fields. That makes a lot of pollution. The farmers burn it; it’s easy and cheap, but the effects are felt far from the farms. In Lahore it causes the thick haze. The schools close, traffic is disrupted, and more people end up in hospital. This year the visibility is so low that it’s even forcing traffic accidents. People in Lahore are suffering from something those people could not have created, and can’t control.
They need to work together to solve this, according to experts. They should be preventive, not reactive. Both countries need better air quality monitoring. Crop burning must be driven more strictly by the governments. Such options as machinery to reduce crop waste can help promote. Compost can also be made from waste. It is not without challenges for these methods. They are more expensive and they need resources. However, they are important to the health of millions of people.
Read more: Artificial Rain Lahore Battle Against Pollution
Lahore’s people can take some steps to protect themselves until long term solutions are in place. But others, like wearing N95 masks, staying indoors during peak smog hours or at home using air purifiers, can be helpful. Awareness is also key. The more people can get exposed to what smog is and how they can limit exposure, the better prepared they are to protect themselves and drive change.
The smog problem in Lahore won’t vanish quickly: If a sense of urgency can help and the awareness is there, it can. Changes are required in sustainable farming practices and emission standards for government. Technology can also help cut pollution. Right now we should concentrate on lowering the health risks. We also must fight to ensure long term solutions to fight this problem once and for all.
Read more: Lahore Declared Most Polluted City in the World
References:
- World Health Organization. Air Pollution and Health. WHO, 2023.
- Tribune. Hazardous Smog from India Chokes Lahore; Visibility Drops to 800m. The Express Tribune, 2024.
- Khan, A. Cross-Border Air Pollution and Its Effects on Pakistan. Environmental Insights, 2023.
- Ali, R. Agricultural Burning and Its Impact on Urban Air Quality. Journal of Environmental Science, 2023.
- Government of Punjab. Health Advisory on Smog and Air Quality. Department of Health, Punjab, 2024.
