LAHORE:
The government of Punjab is trying to improve air quality, but there are still significant gaps in data. Although the air quality monitoring network is growing, there’s no solid climate observatory or updated emissions inventory. This lack of precise data hampers effective policymaking.
Recent figures show alarming levels of air pollution in Punjab. The Air Quality Index indicates that PM2.5 levels in many cities are far above the World Health Organization (WHO) limits. For instance, PM2.5 levels have been recorded between 161-196 µg/m³, while the WHO guideline is just 15 µg/m³. PM10 readings aren’t much better, sitting between 211-258 µg/m³, compared to the WHO’s global standard of 45 µg/m³.
Experts stress that tackling air pollution requires knowing the exact sources and amounts of pollutants. Abid Hussainy, General Manager of Environment at The Urban Unit, emphasized the need for a comprehensive emissions inventory. He mentioned that the Punjab Environment Protection Department is working with SUPARCO to pinpoint sources of PM2.5, which will aid in more informed policy decisions.
To address this issue, Punjab plans to establish its first climate observatory. Hussainy explained that this observatory will consolidate environmental data from various sectors. This centralized information will help identify climate risks and support effective environmental governance.
The main culprits of air pollution include particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone. These are linked to traffic, industrial activities, brick kilns, and even agricultural practices. A significant issue during winter is the burning of crop residues, which worsens smog levels.
Maryam Shah from the Pakistan Air Quality Initiative pointed out that “without accurate and transparent data, we can’t tackle pollution effectively.” She called for a comprehensive monitoring network and better data sharing, noting that many current policies rely on outdated reports from 2019 and 2021.
The government has allocated Rs3 billion for the new climate observatory, which aims to compile historical emissions data. This will enable a clearer view of pollution sources and help guide future policies. Naseem Rehman, a former director at the Punjab EPA, highlighted that while 41 air quality monitors are now operational, there’s a need to increase this number to 100. He stressed that using this data to understand PM2.5 sources is crucial as current strategies are largely based on older reports.
As air quality continues to decline, the urgency for careful planning and informed action has never been greater. Local initiatives, combined with scientific data, can pave the way for cleaner air in Punjab.
For a deeper dive into air quality trends worldwide, check out this WHO report.
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