Children’s health is affected by Pakistan’s air pollution crisis

Pakistan is currently experiencing levels of air pollution that have raised concerns about a potential national health emergency. IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitoring institute, has ranked Lahore as one of the three most polluted cities in the world, with an air quality index of more than 100, or levels harmful to health. The WHO has identified air pollution as one of the greatest challenges to children’s health. In Punjab, the United Nations estimates that more than 11 million children under the age of five are exposed to toxic air every day, with daily PM2.5 levels exceeding the limit of 15 micrograms per cubic metre. Students in Lahore have reported eye irritation and other forms of discomfort as a result of the city’s air pollution. These conditions are also affecting their mental well-being, with many students reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression. In response, some schools in the city have begun installing air purifiers, while a number of precautionary measures, including restrictions on outdoor activities, are being implemented to protect public health. The Pakistani government has launched the National Clean Air Programme to improve air quality, and the World Bank recently approved a $300 million loan to support the country’s clean air efforts in Punjab province. The programme has two aims: to increase forest cover and to raise public awareness of pollution. Measures such as controlling vehicle emissions, closing non-compliant industries and improving the public transport network are recommended to improve the country’s air quality.