ISLAMABAD/RAWALPINDI – Air pollution has worsened across Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Murree and other districts of the Rawalpindi division ahead of the annual smog season.
The increase in the air pollution has raised concerns regarding potential spread of respiratory illnesses and other health complications.
Despite measures taken by the Punjab Environment Protection and Climate Change Department to improve air quality, pollution levels remain high across several urban and industrial areas.
Lahore has recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 228, placing it in the hazardous range, while Rawalpindi’s AQI stands at 147. Areas near industrial units and brick kilns have recorded readings as high as 163. Murree has registered an AQI of 115, while the readings for Attock, Jhelum and Talagang have reached 150, 137 and 143, respectively. Islamabad’s AQI stands at 100.
The figures showed deteriorating air quality across the region even before the peak smog period begins. Last year, the provincial environment department introduced modern vehicles and equipment to strengthen pollution-control efforts, but the latest readings suggest that significant challenges remain.
The residents are already reporting irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, along with colds and other respiratory problems. Government hospitals and local clinics are reportedly seeing more patients with pollution-related complaints.
Environmental inspectors have identified vehicle exhaust, traffic congestion, emissions from ageing vehicles and heavy trucks, industrial smoke and brick kiln operations as major contributors to poor air quality.
The burning of low-grade coal and biomass in factories and brick kilns adds to the problem. Open burning of household rubbish, tyres and other waste also releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
Weather conditions can further aggravate the situation between October and February, when falling temperatures and atmospheric changes may prevent pollutants from dispersing, allowing smoke and harmful particles to accumulate near the ground.
The medical experts have advised people to limit outdoor activities when pollution levels rise and wear N95 masks when exposure cannot be avoided. Residents have also been urged to avoid strenuous exercise outdoors during periods of poor air quality and keep doors and windows closed when pollution is severe.
Children, older adults and people with asthma or heart conditions should take additional precautions because they are particularly vulnerable to polluted air.
Taking notice of the worsening situation, Deputy Commissioner Nadeem Nasir has directed authorities to implement immediate and strict measures to control emissions and improve air quality.