Dr. Muhammad Shahid & Rehan Khalid
| Peshawar is increasingly emerging as one of Pakistan’s most polluted cities, recently ranking among the top three in terms of air pollution. The primary causes include rapid urbanization, unregulated vehicular emissions—particularly from aging and diesel-powered transport—brick kilns operating in and around the city, construction dust, and the widespread use of low-quality fuels. Weak enforcement of environmental regulations, limited public transport options, and the absence of systematic air quality management have further aggravated pollution levels, especially during winter months when smog intensifies. The consequences of this escalating pollution are severe and far-reaching. Poor air quality has led to a rise in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, disproportionately affecting children, the elderly, and low-income communities. It also reduces labor productivity, increases healthcare costs, and undermines overall quality of life. Over time, persistent pollution threatens urban livability, discourages investment, and places additional strain on already overstretched health systems. Addressing Peshawar’s pollution crisis requires a combination of preventive and policy measures. Key interventions include strengthening vehicle emission standards, promoting mass transit and electric mobility, regulating brick kilns and construction activities, and expanding urban green spaces. Equally important are investments in air quality monitoring, enforcement of environmental laws, and public awareness campaigns. A coordinated city-level clean air action plan—aligned with provincial climate and health strategies—is essential to reverse the city’s deteriorating environmental trajectory. |
