ISLAMABAD, May 18 (ANI): Air pollution has emerged as one of Pakistan’s deadliest crises, causing nearly 135,000 premature deaths annually, according to information presented in the National Assembly.
The disclosure highlights the country’s worsening environmental and public health emergency, as reported by Samaa TV.
According to the report, a written response submitted by Pakistan’s federal minister for climate change stated that rising levels of toxic air and persistent smog are reducing the average lifespan of Pakistanis by approximately two years and seven months.
The report identified PM2.5 — extremely fine and hazardous airborne particles — as the primary threat to public health nationwide. These microscopic pollutants have been linked to a growing number of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic lung complications.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged exposure to polluted air can have severe long-term effects, particularly for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing medical conditions.
Major urban centers, especially Lahore and nearby districts, remain among the regions most severely affected. Dense winter smog continues to disrupt daily life, force school closures, and expose millions of residents to dangerous pollution levels.
Authorities described the deteriorating air quality as a major public health challenge that continues to worsen each year.
According to official projections, Pakistan’s rapidly growing urban population is expected to reach nearly 120 million by 2030, a trend likely to intensify environmental degradation and toxic emissions if urgent reforms are not implemented, Samaa TV reported.
In response to mounting criticism, federal and provincial governments have accelerated efforts under the National Clean Air Policy 2023.
Officials said stricter action will be taken against crop residue burning, smoke-emitting vehicles, and industrial polluters. Authorities are also strengthening monitoring systems and enforcement mechanisms to address worsening smog conditions.
The worsening air quality has also contributed to declining life expectancy and a rise in respiratory diseases across the country, according to Samaa TV. (ANI)
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