Islamabad, Dec 22: Environmental pollution is a major factor in large cities like Lahore and Delhi where main create a grayish, foggy cover known as smog. It also has an implication on people’s health which is equally hazardous to the wellbeing so the environment Generally it adversely affects the environment. That means that by applying the strategic measures put in place it is possible to minimize the levels of smog and pollution.
Here is the list of recommendations for these cities.
Key Causes of Smog and Pollution
- Vehicular Emissions: Heavy traffic flow is also a source of greenhouse gases and particulate matter.
- Industrial Emissions: Factories often release harmful pollutants due to lax regulations.
- Crop Burning: Farmers burn crop residues, releasing a massive number of pollutants.
- Urbanization: Rapid urban growth often leads to deforestation and poor waste management.
1. Promote Public Transportation and Electric Vehicles
- Invest in Public Transport: Expand metro systems and bus networks to reduce reliance on private vehicles.
- Encourage Electric Vehicles (EVs): Provide subsidies and build EV charging infrastructure to promote cleaner alternatives.
2. Enforce Strict Industrial Regulations
- Mandate the use of air filters and emission-reduction technologies in industries.
- Penalize factories that exceed permissible pollution levels.
3. Adopt Eco-Friendly Agricultural Practices
- Promote the use of mechanical harvesters and composting instead of burning crop stubble.
- Provide financial incentives to farmers who adopt sustainable practices.
4. Green Urban Planning
- Increase green spaces such as parks and urban forests to improve air quality.
- Implement vertical gardens and rooftop greenery.
5. Raise Public Awareness
- Conduct campaigns highlighting the importance of reducing personal carbon footprints.
- Educate citizens on proper waste disposal and the dangers of open burning.
- Beijing, China: Introduced stringent vehicle restrictions and switched to cleaner energy sources.
- London, UK: Implemented a congestion charge to limit vehicle traffic in central areas.
FAQs
Q1: How does smog affect health? Air pollution causes respiratory diseases, heart diseases, and irritation of the eyes. It might also lead to chronic diseases like asthma and lung cancer after being exposed to it for a long term or a number of years.
Q2: What role does crop burning play in air pollution? A burning of crops leads to emission of dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and fine particles making the air quality very poor.
Q3: Can individual actions make a difference in reducing pollution? Yes, people can do their parts by travelling in public transport, avoiding waste disposal through open burning, & planting trees.
