Pakistan Ranks 3rd Most Polluted Country in 2024
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- March 14, 2025
- 1:08 pm
- 39
- Current Affairs
Pakistan’s Alarming Air Quality Ranking
Pakistan air pollution crisis has worsened, placing the country as the third most polluted nation in 2024. The World Air Quality Report by IQAir highlights this concerning issue. Chad ranked first, followed by Bangladesh, while India and the Democratic Republic of Congo also made the list.
This ranking signals a severe environmental crisis that affects millions. Smog, industrial emissions, and vehicle pollution continue to degrade air quality across Pakistan.
Facts and Figures
The report analyzed air quality from over 7,000 cities worldwide using PM2.5 levels as a key metric. Pakistan recorded an average PM2.5 level of 71.5 micrograms per cubic meter, far above the World Health Organization (WHO) limit of 5 micrograms.
Lahore and Karachi remain among the worst-affected cities, experiencing extreme smog and hazardous air. The Pakistan air pollution crisis has led to thousands of premature deaths and a rise in respiratory diseases. Additionally, the economic cost is rising due to healthcare expenses and lost productivity.
Current Measures to Reduce Pollution
Pakistan has acknowledged its pollution crisis and launched initiatives like Clean Green Pakistan to improve air quality. The government has promoted tree plantation campaigns and enforced temporary restrictions on industrial activities during severe smog episodes.
Some provinces have installed air quality monitoring systems, but enforcement remains weak. Limited access to real-time pollution data makes it difficult to implement effective policies. More structured and long-term solutions are necessary.
How to Combat Air Pollution?
Pakistan must take stronger and more permanent actions to fight air pollution. Here are some key solutions:
1. Improve Public Transport
Developing an efficient and eco-friendly transport system can significantly cut vehicle emissions. Expanding metro networks and promoting electric buses are crucial steps.
2. Stricter Industrial Regulations
Industries, especially brick kilns and steel plants, contribute heavily to pollution. Enforcing tighter regulations and eco-friendly production methods is necessary.
3. Switch to Renewable Energy
Transitioning to solar, wind, and hydro energy will reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which are major air pollutants. Government incentives for green energy can encourage this shift.
4. Green Urban Planning
Creating more parks and green spaces can help absorb pollutants. Smart urban planning can minimize congestion and improve air circulation.
5. Public Awareness Campaigns
Educating people about the dangers of air pollution can drive change. Encouraging individuals to adopt sustainable practices like carpooling and waste reduction can have a significant impact.
The Way Forward
Although Pakistan has launched pollution control initiatives, these efforts need faster implementation and stricter enforcement. The government must expand air quality monitoring, promote clean energy, and regulate industries more effectively.
Regional cooperation with countries facing similar challenges could lead to better pollution control strategies. With stronger policies and collective action, Pakistan can move towards a cleaner and healthier future.
