By Engineer Arshad H. Abbasi

Air pollution in Pakistan has emerged as a critical environmental and public health challenge, with major cities such as Lahore consistently recording some of the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) levels globally. The prevalence of toxic smog, exacerbated by vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and the use of substandard fuels, has led to significant health repercussions, including respiratory diseases and premature mortality. Additionally, the economic burden of air pollution is substantial, with estimated losses amounting to billions of dollars annually. Despite the severity of the crisis, policy responses have been insufficient in addressing the root causes of deteriorating air quality. This report provides an evidence-based analysis of Pakistan’s air pollution crisis, examining key sources, socio-economic consequences, and the necessity of adopting stringent regulatory frameworks and technological interventions to mitigate environmental degradation and safeguard public health.