Air Pollution Hits Alarming Levels in Peshawar
Chehra WebDesk
Air Pollution Hits Alarming Levels
in Peshawar
PESHAWAR: On Thursday, the air quality in Peshawar soared to hazardous levels,
reaching an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 296, following the footsteps of Lahore
and Karachi. Anwar Khan, Director General of the Environmental Protection
Agency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, expressed concern over the unprecedented AQI
level of 290, emphasizing that an AQI above 151 is considered unhealthy, while
anything beyond 301 poses a hazardous threat to respiratory health.
Multiple Factors Contributing to Rising Air Pollution
According to Mr. Anwar Khan, the surge in air pollution is attributed to
various factors. These include the emission of fumes and smoke from marble
factories, industrial activities, brick kilns, and the prevalent use of
smoke-emitting vehicles. Outdated school buses, public transport, rickshaws,
and taxis are significant contributors to the deteriorating air quality. With
approximately 400,000 vehicles navigating Peshawar's roads daily, urgent
measures are necessary. Citizens are advised to take precautions such as refraining
from outdoor exercise, keeping windows closed at homes and offices, wearing
masks outdoors, and utilizing air purifiers indoors.
Relief in Lahore as Rain Clears Smog
Meanwhile, Lahore experienced a respite from its smog-laden atmosphere as
various areas received light rain on Thursday morning. The precipitation not
only brought down the mercury level but also significantly improved the air
quality. Over the past few months, Lahore has grappled with severe smog,
earning the dubious distinction of being one of the world's most polluted
cities. This has sparked widespread health concerns across all age groups in
the city.
