By Nadir Ali
The world has been plagued by environmental pollution for many years, and the issue is only getting worse. Unfortunately, it appears to be an incurable disease that is spreading at an alarming rate. The definition of pollution is “the release of noxious materials or products into the environment that harm both natural and living things.” From industrial processes to agricultural methods and transportation, there are many different types of pollution.
In Pakistan, air pollution is one of the main environmental risk factors. The use of industrial chemicals and the burning of fossil fuels both contribute to air pollution by releasing noxious gases and particles into the atmosphere. Pakistan frequently exceeds the safe level of air pollution set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses like asthma can result from this. Because of the high medical costs associated with these illnesses, families may become even more impoverished.
The health and level of poverty of the population in Pakistan are significantly impacted by environmental risk factors. Pakistan is a developing nation where the vast majority of people rely on agriculture and raising livestock to make a living. Due to its reliance on natural resources, the nation is highly susceptible to environmental risks like air pollution, water pollution, and natural disasters.
Moreover, the burning of fossil fuels is among the leading causes of environmental pollution. Carbon dioxide and other harmful gases are released in large quantities into the atmosphere when coal, oil, and natural gas are used to generate energy. In addition to contributing to climate change, this also contributes to air pollution, which can have detrimental effects on health, such as cancer and respiratory diseases.
Pakistan has experienced environmental pollution, which is a problem that has affected nations all over the world. Despite the nation’s rapidly expanding population, widespread environmental degradation has been caused by a lack of effective laws and policies. The fact that it is an incurable illness has indeed raised serious concerns for Pakistani citizens.
However, industrialization is one of the main factors contributing to environmental pollution in Pakistan. A rise in air, water, and soil pollution has been caused by the nation’s recent rapid industrial growth. This issue has also been exacerbated by the careless disposal of toxic chemicals and hazardous waste. The situation has gotten worse as a result of inadequate waste management facilities and ineffective environmental regulation implementation.
Similarly, the extensive use of fossil fuels in Pakistan is another factor contributing to environmental pollution. Coal-fired power plants, which release dangerous air pollutants, are widely used in the country. With outdated vehicles and low-quality fuel, the transportation industry is a significant contributor to air pollution.
Likewise, water pollution is another risk factor for the environment in Pakistan. In Pakistan, the vast majority of people lack access to safe drinking water. This is because an industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage have contaminated water sources. A variety of waterborne illnesses like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid can result from a lack of clean drinking water. These illnesses may lead to long-term health issues, lost wages from missed work, and expensive medical care. Through policies and interventions that support clean air and water, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development, these environmental risk factors can be addressed, which can help to improve population health and well-being and decrease poverty in Pakistan.
Nadir Ali holds a bachelor’s degree in Strategic and Nuclear Studies from the National Defense University, Islamabad. He has written for Modern Diplomacy, Pakistan Today, Pakistan Observer, and numerous other publishers. He tweets at @hafiznadirali7 and can be reached at hafiznadirali7@gmail.com
