Daily Times

Lahore’s air quality has reached critical levels, with recent AQI (Air Quality Index) readings soaring above 1000 – well past the “hazardous” threshold of 300, where prolonged exposure severely threatens health. For context, the World Health Organization (WHO) defines an AQI of 0-50 as “good” and safe for human health. Lahore’s current levels are not just alarming; they’re a public health disaster impacting millions.

Health Impacts – The Invisible Crisis Inside Our Homes

This crisis isn’t confined to the outdoors. Toxic air infiltrates our homes, schools, and workplaces, exposing everyone to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Long-term exposure to these pollutants is linked to severe respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease, and weakened immune systems. Children, in particular, are at high risk, with alarming rates of asthma and chronic respiratory conditions that may affect them for life. And it’s not only humans at risk – pets, livestock, and wildlife all suffer in these conditions, further disrupting the local ecosystem.

Can Planting Trees Help?

Planting trees is a valuable, natural tool in combating pollution. Trees absorb CO2, provide oxygen, and help cool urban areas. However, planting alone is not enough. To effectively counter pollution at the scale Lahore is experiencing, tree-planting initiatives must be part of a comprehensive action plan that includes emissions control, industrial regulations, and public awareness. Without a multi-layered strategy, trees cannot counterbalance the intense pollution from vehicles, factories, and crop burning.

To effectively counter pollution at the scale Lahore is experiencing, tree-planting initiatives must be part of a comprehensive action plan.

Crop Burning and Sustainable Alternatives

One significant contributor to seasonal smog is crop burning. For many farmers, burning stubble is the fastest, cheapest way to clear fields. However, sustainable alternatives exist and must be supported. Technologies like “Happy Seeders” allow farmers to plant seeds without clearing stubble through burning; these machines cut and spread stubble over the soil as mulch, which also enhances soil health.

The government can play a transformative role here by subsidizing access to these tools and educating farmers on sustainable crop management practices that help avoid smog-inducing fires.

COP29 Baku – A Platform for International Engagement

With COP29 on the horizon, Pakistan has a vital opportunity to raise this issue on the global stage and seek international support for pollution control initiatives. Air pollution knows no borders, and smog from neighbouring regions frequently impacts local air quality. Engaging world leaders at COP29 could help Pakistan access the technology, funding, and expertise needed to collaboratively address cross-border pollution and ensure that clean air becomes a right, not a privilege, for all.

An Urgent Call for Action from Pakistan’s Climate Change Ministry.

Our Ministry of Climate Change must take swift, decisive action to address this crisis. The following steps are critical:

1. Strict enforcement of emissions standards on vehicles and industries, holding polluters accountable to reduce pollution at its sources.

2. Policies promoting sustainable urban planning that reduce dust from construction, limit emissions and prioritize green spaces across cities.

3. Support and incentives for farmers to adopt alternatives to crop burning, including financial subsidies for tools like Happy Seeders.

4. Public education campaigns to increase awareness about protective measures and safe practices on high-pollution days.

The Time for Decisive Action Is Now.

Lahore’s air quality crisis is not a seasonal nuisance. It’s a severe public health emergency that demands immediate action. Every day of inaction leads to irreversible health impacts for our communities, particularly our children. Pakistan has a responsibility to advocate for global solutions at COP29 and ensure our leaders push for international collaboration on clean air.

I urge the Ministry of Climate Change to mobilize on these solutions and take a proactive approach to protect public health. Addressing Lahore’s smog requires strong, enforceable policies grounded in science and environmental stewardship. As an environmental researcher and advocate, I stand ready to assist the government in developing practical, impactful solutions to secure a sustainable, livable future.

The writer is a freelance columnist.