This article is based on Syed Akhter Ali’s piece in The Express Tribune
PAKISTAN: Air pollution has become chronic in the Punjab province of Pakistan. The problem has worsened to such an extent that government officials are calling for extra days off a week as smog threatens health. Health facilities are frequently overwhelmed by individuals facing problems directly related to air pollution.
Is there a solution? Let’s have a look.
The Chinese model
China has successfully deployed innovative techniques to mitigate the impact of air pollution.
The government started spraying roads with water to reduce air pollution to mitigate the severe air pollution problem in major Chinese cities.
Water cannons, known as “mist cannons,” have effectively eradicated the problem in China. Water can also be sprinkled from a height of 50 meters to have a more positive outcome.
Chinese expert assistance
The Pakistani government can formally talk with the Chinese government to establish pollution centers nationwide.
“Experts’ assistance may be procured from China. Some accessories may be brought along by the experts themselves,” Syed Akhter Ali, a former member of the Energy Planning Commission, said.
Transport
Transport is one of the major sources of air pollution, particularly in major cities like Lahore.
“Transport control actions like holidays and timings can reduce some air pollution,” Syed Akhter suggests.
Of all the vehicular emissions, 40% are emitted by motorcycles.
If the authorities are serious about eradicating the issue, they must do something about the motorcycles too.
Electric vehicles can significantly upgrade Pakistan’s environment and overall economy.
The country will have to import far less as a major chunk of its imports goes to energy.
Bio-CNG is more environment friendly
Syed Akhter argues that Bio-CNG is much more environmentally friendly than traditional energy sources. Unlike traditional CNG, bio-CNG is renewable energy and is considered many times cleaner compared to other energy sources.
Waste management
Syed Akhter suggests recycling all recyclable food and other waste. In Pakistan, 50% of all municipal solid waste consists of veggies and fruits; recycling can reduce a major source of greenhouse gases.
