Pakistan faces severe air pollution crisis as 2024 rankings confirm global struggles

Author:

A new report reveals that Pakistan ranks as one of the top five most polluted countries in 2024. Alongside Chad, Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and India, Pakistan continues to struggle with severe air pollution. The air quality in the country remains below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe standards, with harmful particulate matter (PM2.5) levels far exceeding limits.

The average PM2.5 concentration in Pakistan is alarmingly high. Only 17% of global cities met the WHO’s safe limit of 5 micrograms per cubic meter last year. Major cities like Lahore and Karachi frequently experience intense pollution, especially during winter. Fog and industrial emissions combine to create dangerous smog, posing serious health risks to residents.

The recent end of the US State Department’s air quality monitoring program adds to Pakistan’s challenges. For years, this program provided essential real-time pollution data for developing countries. The closure leaves Pakistan vulnerable and hampers efforts to combat air pollution effectively.

Experts, like Christi Chester-Schroeder from IQAir, warn that the loss of monitoring stations is a major setback. Without reliable pollution data, Pakistan’s battle against smog becomes increasingly difficult. As climate change worsens air quality with rising temperatures and forest fires, urgent action is needed to improve air quality and implement stronger pollution control measures.

Share
Leave a Comment

Recent Posts

  • Business

Rupee sheds 16 paisa against dollar

The Rupee on Friday depreciated by 16 paisa against the US Dollar in the interbank…

10 hours ago
  • Business

Gold prices up by Rs.4,700 to Rs314,000 per tola

The price of 24 karat per tola gold increased by Rs.4,700 and was traded at…

10 hours ago
  • Business

Pakistan, EU discuss GSP+ status

EU Ambassador Dr. Riina Kionka on Friday called on Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator…

10 hours ago
  • Business

Uzbek products exhibition in Capital attracts huge interest

The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Pakistan successfully organized a trade mission in collaboration with the…

10 hours ago
  • Business

Pakistan, Oman agree to activate Joint Business Council, strengthen trade ties

Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan on Friday met with Mr. Faisal Abdullah Al…

10 hours ago
  • Business

PAJCCI calls for immediate action on Pakistan-Afghanistan trade issues

The Government of Pakistan must take immediate action to resolve the worsening trade crisis with…

10 hours ago