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Pakistan Smog Crisis
Record smog levels in Pakistan, visible from space, cause health crisis and lead to emergency measures.
English
United Kingdom
HealthClimate ChangeEnergy SecurityPublic HealthEnvironmental DisasterAir PollutionSouth AsiaHealth Crisis
NasaIqairUnicef
Abdullah Fadil
- What is the UN's concern regarding the impact of the smog?
- The UN agency UNICEF warned that the health of 11 million children in the Punjab region is at risk due to the record-breaking air pollution levels. Prior to this, air pollution accounted for approximately 12% of deaths in children under five in Pakistan.
- What are the contributing factors to the smog in the region?
- The smog is a result of a combination of factors common to South Asian countries during winter, including cold air trapping dust, emissions, and smoke from farm fires. This issue affects other South Asian nations such as India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
- What is the source showing the extent of smog over Pakistan?
- Satellite images from NASA Worldview show a thick smog over Pakistan, extending into parts of India. Lahore, Pakistan, had an air quality index exceeding 400, considered hazardous, with PM2.5 levels over 50 times recommended guidelines.
- What measures have been used to address the smog in previous years?
- In previous years, measures to combat severe smog included school and business closures, and in 2024 Lahore even used artificial rain to try to mitigate the effects of the hazardous smog.
- What measures have been taken by regional authorities in response to the smog?
- Regional authorities in Pakistan responded to the severe smog by banning outdoor activities, closing shops early, and shutting down schools and public spaces. Over 40,000 people have sought treatment for respiratory problems.