Environmental Pollution in Pakistan: Causes, Impacts, and Responses
1. Causes of Environmental Pollution
a. Population Explosion
Pakistan's population surpassed 241 million in 2024, intensifying pressure on natural resources and
infrastructure. Rapid urbanization, especially in cities like Karachi and Lahore, has led to increased waste
generation and environmental degradation.
b. Industrialization
Unregulated industrial growth contributes significantly to air and water pollution.
Case Study: Faisalabad Textile Industry
Faisalabad, known as Pakistan's textile hub, discharges substantial amounts of untreated industrial effluents
into water bodies, leading to severe water pollution and health hazards for local communities.
(Source: mdpi.com, 2023)
c. Urbanization
Over 36.4% of Pakistan's population resides in urban areas. The lack of adequate infrastructure has resulted
in poor waste management, traffic congestion, and increased pollution levels.
d. Transportation
The surge in vehicular traffic, coupled with outdated vehicles and low-quality fuel, has escalated air pollution
levels in major cities.
Case Study: Lahore's Air Quality Crisis
In November 2023, Lahore's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached hazardous levels, prompting the government to
implement emergency measures.
(Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com, 2023)
e. Solid Waste Mismanagement
Pakistan generates approximately 3.9 million tons of plastic waste annually, with less than 10% being
recycled.
Case Study: Karachi's Waste Management Challenges
Karachi faces significant challenges in solid waste management, with open dumping and lack of recycling
facilities contributing to environmental degradation.
(Source: jisrmsse.szabist.edu.pk, 2023)
f. Energy Production
The country's reliance on fossil fuels for energy production results in substantial greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Types of Pollution and Their Impacts
a. Air Pollution
Sources include vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and burning of fossil fuels.
Health Impacts: Respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and reduced life expectancy.
Case Study: Lahore's Smog Crisis
In December 2023, Lahore experienced severe smog, leading to over 1.9 million hospital visits.
(Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com, 2023)
b. Water Pollution
Contamination from industrial effluents, sewage, and agricultural runoff has degraded water quality.
Case Study: Rawal Lake Contamination
Rawal Lake, a primary water source for Islamabad, faces pollution from surrounding residential and industrial
areas.
(Source: enveurope.springeropen.com, 2023)
c. Soil Pollution
Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to soil degradation.
Case Study: Punjab's Agricultural Lands
Overuse of agrochemicals in Punjab has resulted in declining soil fertility and crop yields.
(Source: mdpi.com, 2023)
d. Noise Pollution
Urban areas experience high noise levels due to traffic and industrial activities.
3. Solid Waste Management
a. Sahiwal's Waste Management Initiative
Sahiwal has established a solid waste management plant that recycles 35-40 tons of waste daily.
(Source: dawn.com, 2024)
b. Lahore Composting Facility
Processes municipal waste into compost, reducing emissions and enhancing soil health.
(Source: en.wikipedia.org, 2023)
4. Deforestation in Pakistan
Case Study: Changa Manga Forest
Once the world's largest man-made forest, Changa Manga has suffered extensive deforestation.
(Source: en.wikipedia.org, 2023)
5. Climate Change and Its Impacts
Case Study: 2022 Floods
Devastating floods in 2022 affected over 33 million people.
(Source: pubs.acs.org, 2023)
6. Government Initiatives and Policies
a. Clean Air Policy 2023
Aims to reduce air pollutant emissions by up to 80% by 2050.
(Source: pubs.acs.org, 2023)
b. Renewable Energy Targets
Goal: 60% renewable energy in the national mix by 2030.
