A few days ago, I wrote a column on climate change and its effects, and today’s topic is equally significant. In Pakistan, the effects of environmental pollution and climate change are increasing day by day, but the segment of society that truly perceives the depth of these issues is very limited. Pollution levels in major cities of our country have reached dangerous levels, and rural areas are facing challenges such as water scarcity and reduced soil fertility.
The smoke emitted from industrial factories, the carbon dioxide from vehicles, and the smoke from burning coal in households have made the situation of air pollution extremely critical. This issue is even more severe than we might think because it is not limited to air pollution; water, land, and even our food system are being affected by it.
The problem of air pollution in Pakistan is escalating daily. Major cities like Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Peshawar remain enveloped in smog. Smog is a hazardous mixture formed from various chemical substances in the atmosphere, leading to respiratory diseases, heart problems, cancer, and birth defects in children. The increasing number of vehicles, unregulated industrial development, and lack of cleanliness in urban areas have further exacerbated this problem.
Water pollution is also a severe issue facing both rural and urban areas of Pakistan. The indiscriminate discharge of industrial waste and chemicals into rivers and lakes is contaminating natural water resources. The presence of chemicals in underground water reservoirs is also rising, and the excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers in fields is polluting both soil and groundwater. In rural areas, many people live without access to clean water, and the spread of waterborne diseases among children is increasing rapidly
Climate change has also become a significant challenge for Pakistan. Due to climate change, various regions of Pakistan are witnessing unexpected and intense weather conditions. The frequency of rainfall has significantly decreased in Balochistan and Sindh, resulting in droughts. Farmers are unable to yield full crops from their lands, and the agricultural sector is facing severe difficulties. Conversely, northern areas and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are experiencing increased rainfall and flooding, which have damaged crops and posed serious threats to people’s lives and property.
Pakistan is among the countries most affected by climate change, yet, unfortunately, this grave issue is not taken seriously either at the governmental level or by the public. Although our share in global carbon emissions is minimal, we are among the most affected by climate change. In this scenario, we need to join forces with other developing countries and raise our voice at the international level so that wealthy nations take responsibility and contribute to reducing the pollution that harms the world’s poorer nations.
Deforestation has also increased due to environmental pollution and climate change. Forests are essential for the air and land sustainability of any country, but in Pakistan, trees are being cut down indiscriminately. Deforestation is destroying wildlife habitats, putting many animal species at risk of extinction. The reduction of trees is also increasing soil erosion, affecting soil fertility, and depleting underground water reserves.
The current situation of environmental pollution and climate change is extremely dangerous for Pakistan’s future. If we do not take this issue seriously today and fail to take practical measures at both the governmental and public levels, we will face irreversible damage in the future. To solve this issue, we need to increase public awareness, promote tree-planting campaigns, and enforce strict regulations to control industrial waste discharge. Environmental protection and climate change awareness campaigns should be conducted in schools and colleges to help the younger generation understand the importance of this issue and contribute to its solution.
The government should collaborate with international organizations to take practical steps to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure the protection of water reserves and afforestation in the country. Additionally, investing in alternative energy sources like solar and wind energy can help reduce environmental pollution. The public should also take small steps in their daily lives, such as reducing the use of plastic, avoiding water wastage, and using public transport as much as possible.
If we ignore this issue today, the resources of the Earth will become insufficient for future generations, making life difficult. We must accept the reality that any tampering with nature will eventually confront us. For Pakistan’s survival and the safety of its future generations, we need to take immediate and serious measures to combat environmental pollution and climate change. The land, rivers, and air of this country are entrusted to our children, and we must pledge to secure their future.