By: Asif Mehmood
A group of 27 air quality experts in Pakistan has written a letter to the Prime Minister, calling for immediate and strategic measures to combat the worsening smog and air pollution crisis in the country. The letter outlines a 12-point action plan, highlighting the severe health and environmental risks posed by deteriorating air quality, particularly in Punjab and other affected regions.
The experts emphasized that the Air Quality Index (AQI) data for October and November 2024 revealed the worst air quality levels on record, far exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and Pakistan’s own legal limits. They warned that millions of citizens are suffering from respiratory and other health complications due to the toxic air, and immediate action is critical to prevent further harm.
Key Recommendations:
The group proposed urgent short-term measures, including:
Closure of Brick Kilns: Temporary shutdown of brick kilns in smog-affected districts, which they estimate could reduce pollution by 15%.
Stricter Vehicle Emission Checks: Enhancing vehicle emission standards to align with Euro-6 standards, while reducing heavy transport activity in urban areas, potentially cutting air pollution by another 15%.
Industrial Regulation: Shutting down polluting industrial units that fail to meet environmental standards, particularly during smog emergencies.
The experts also emphasized the need for long-term, integrated solutions, calling for cross-sectoral collaboration in areas such as health, education, energy, transport, and agriculture.
Nationwide Monitoring Network:
A major recommendation was the establishment of a nationwide, real-time air quality monitoring network. Such a system would provide continuous data, enabling timely alerts for citizens and policymakers. The group suggested launching this initiative as a pilot project in Lahore and Rawalpindi.
Focus on Clean Technology:
The letter urged the government to prioritize the transition to clean technologies, including:
Accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and cleaner industrial practices.
Upgrading fuel standards:
Promoting alternative cooking and heating solutions.
Experts also stressed the importance of improving overall energy efficiency and enhancing the government’s regulatory capacity to enforce air quality standards effectively.
Tackling Agricultural Emissions:
Recognizing the role of crop residue burning in exacerbating smog, the group proposed engaging farmers and introducing technical solutions for residue management. This approach aims to help farmers adopt sustainable alternatives while reducing agricultural emissions.
Call for Research and Equity:
The experts highlighted the need for epidemiological research to better understand the health impacts of air pollution. They noted that vulnerable communities bear the brunt of environmental and health inequalities and urged policymakers to prioritize these groups in their air quality strategies.
The letter concluded by designating Islamabad as a focal point for achieving clean air and calling for a shift in urban planning to prioritize sustainable public transit and low-emission technologies. The experts stressed that addressing air pollution requires sustained, evidence-based efforts to protect public health and ensure environmental sustainability.