Lahore Tops The List Of Air Pollution Rates
Lahore, Pakistan, has topped the list of countries with the highest air pollution rate again as per the 2022 annual average. A tweet by the account “World of Statistics” has tweeted the list of the top 20 cities with the highest air pollution rates. The rate has been measured in PM2.5 concentration, μg/m³, and here’s the list:
Lahore is at the top while Peshawar is at the 5th number, and Faisalabad is at the 16th number. Several north Indian countries occupy the rest of the list.
Most air-polluted cities (PM2.5 concentration, μg/m³):
1. 🇵🇰 Lahore, Pakistan: 97.4
2. 🇨🇳 Hotan, China: 94.3
3. 🇮🇳 Bhiwadi, India: 92.7
4. 🇮🇳 Delhi: 92.6
5. 🇵🇰 Peshawar: 91.8
6. 🇮🇳 Darbhanga: 90.3
7. 🇮🇳 Asopur: 90.2
8. 🇹🇩 N'Djamena, Chad: 89.7
9. 🇮🇳 New Delhi: 89.1
10. 🇮🇳 Patna:…— World of Statistics (@stats_feed) June 6, 2023
The factors contributing to this unfortunate reality are complex, with some of the key reasons behind the city’s high air pollution levels being:
Industrial Emissions
Lahore is a major industrial hub with a significant number of factories and manufacturing units. Industrial emissions, including the release of harmful pollutants and particulate matter, contribute significantly to pollution in the city. Industrial processes, such as burning fossil fuels and improper waste management, release contaminants into the atmosphere, leading to deteriorated air quality.
Vehicular Pollution
The rapid increase in the number of vehicles on Lahore’s roads has contributed significantly to air pollution. The city is experiencing a surge in traffic congestion, resulting in increased emissions from vehicles. The exhaust emissions, particularly from older and poorly maintained vehicles, release pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, which severely impact air quality.
Agricultural Practices
Agricultural activities, including crop burning, are prevalent in the surrounding areas of Lahore. Farmers often resort to burning crop residues to prepare fields for the next planting season. This practice releases large quantities of smoke and pollutants into the air, significantly contributing to the overall air pollution levels in the city.
Construction and Dust
The rapid urbanization and ongoing construction projects in Lahore generate substantial amounts of dust and particulate matter. Construction sites, when not properly managed, can release significant amounts of dust particles into the air, adding to the pollution burden. The dusty conditions exacerbate air quality issues, especially during dry and windy seasons.
Geographical Factors
Lahore’s geographical location also plays a role in its air pollution levels. The city is situated in a basin surrounded by hills, which creates a temperature inversion effect. This effect traps pollutants close to the ground, preventing their dispersion and exacerbating the pollution problem.
Lack of Effective Regulations
Challenges related to the implementation and enforcement of environmental regulations contribute to Lahore’s air pollution crisis. Inadequate monitoring and enforcement of emission standards for industries and vehicles, along with weak waste management systems, allow pollutants to be released unchecked into the atmosphere.
Lahore’s air pollution problem demands a diverse solution that includes public education, government action, and individual accountability. To battle pollution and guarantee a healthy future for Lahore and its citizens, stricter emission limits, greener mobility options, better industrial practices, and investments in renewable energy sources are crucial.