UN Warns Toxic Smog in Punjab, Pakistan is Endangering Children’s Health
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- November 12, 2024
- 12:18 pm
- 21
- Current Affairs
For nearly a month, toxic smog has blanketed Lahore and 17 other Punjab districts. It has caused a health crisis with dire effects. UNICEF reports that 11 million children under five are at risk from rising air pollution. Experts say it is becoming a "fifth season" each winter. This hazardous air has changed daily life for millions. It especially threatens young children, who are more vulnerable to health issues.
Alarming Health Impacts of Punjab’s Smog
The health risks associated with Punjab’s air pollution have reached unprecedented levels. Health officials report that over 40,000 people have already been treated for respiratory problems in the last few weeks alone. This number includes many children with respiratory ailments. They are due to high pollutant levels. Before this record-breaking smog, air pollution caused 12% of deaths in children under five in Pakistan. UNICEF's Abdullah Fadil warned that this year's pollution could double or triple its impact, especially on young children and pregnant women.
Protective Measures in Place, but Challenges Remain
To curb exposure, Pakistan has shut all schools in Punjab until November 17. Parks, museums, and other public spaces are closed for ten days. The government urges people to stay indoors as much as possible. Officials are making face masks mandatory in public, though adherence has been inconsistent.
Another measure is artificial rainfall to clear some pollutants. It is still under discussion and not yet implemented.
Smog Levels: A Persistent Danger in Punjab’s Major Cities
This week, an AQI of about 800 set a record for pollution in Multan, says Punjab's Environmental Protection Department. To put this in perspective, an AQI of 300 or above is considered hazardous to health. In Punjab, including Lahore, pollution levels are very high. This puts everyone, especially children, at risk.
Why Smog is Especially Dangerous for Children
Children’s lungs and immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to airborne toxins. High pollution can cause chronic respiratory issues like asthma. It can also harm brain development. The impact doesn't stop there. Prolonged exposure to bad air can harm heart health and lower life expectancy.
Calls for Government Action
UNICEF has strongly urged the Pakistani government to take urgent steps to improve air quality in Punjab. They want stronger pollution controls to protect children from harm. This includes better vehicle emissions standards and less industrial pollution. Abdullah Fadil warned that this year's extreme pollution could have lasting effects. So, Pakistan must prioritize solutions to its air quality crisis.
How Can Parents Help Protect Their Children?
Given the severity of the smog, parents can take several steps to protect their children:
1. Keep children indoors as much as possible, especially during peak smog hours.
2. Use air purifiers indoors to minimize pollutants.
3. Make face masks a routine, particularly when going outdoors.
4. Limit outdoor activities to reduce prolonged exposure to hazardous air.
Conclusion: Protecting Punjab’s Children from Toxic Air
As Punjab's toxic smog hits dangerous levels, urgent action is needed to protect millions of children. The UN’s warnings serve as a stark reminder of the risks posed by air pollution, especially to young lives. With global focus on Punjab's smog crisis, hope remains. People want Pakistan's government to act on this yearly threat to public health.
