Smog has become a serious problem in many Pakistani cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Karachi—especially in the winter months, when the air gets thick and hard to breathe. But why does this happen?
A big part of the problem comes from old and poorly maintained vehicles. Every day, cars, buses, and rickshaws release harmful gases and tiny particles into the air, which are dangerous to inhale, hence deteriorating air quality. Using bad quality fuel and unregulated public transport only makes things worse.
Industries and brick kilns also add to of problem. Many use cheap fuels like coal or rubber tires without proper filters, sending smoke and toxic gases into the air. In rural areas, farmers burn leftover crop stubble after harvest, which creates huge clouds of smoke that drift into cities. While crop burning may seem convenient at the time to clear fields quickly, it releases massive amounts of toxic substances into the air, such as Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10), tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems, heart diseases, and worsen asthma
Weather makes the smog stick around longer. In winter, the air traps pollution close to the ground, and because it’s dry and windy, the smoke doesn’t go away easily. Construction dust and burning trash in open spaces add even more pollution. Many people use diesel generators during power outages, and coal power plants release more smog-causing pollution.
In summary, the release a toxic mix of harmful substances that not only pollute the air but also pose serious health risks to millions of people. These dangerous chemicals contribute heavily to smog, making it harder for everyone to breathe. Tackling crop burning is essential—not just to improve air quality but to protect public health and create a cleaner, safer environment for future generations.