Karachi and Lahore, Pakistan’s two largest cities, have become synonymous with high pollution levels, severely impacting the health of their residents. While cities like Zurich, Helsinki, and Auckland boast of clean air, Karachi and Lahore struggle with alarming pollution levels that are causing a surge in health problems, particularly eye diseases.
Recent statistics reveal that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Karachi often surpasses 150, categorizing it as “unhealthy” for the general population. Lahore fares even worse, with AQI levels frequently exceeding 200, placing it in the “very unhealthy” category. In stark contrast, Zurich’s AQI rarely crosses 50, a threshold considered safe for all. The annual average concentration of PM2.5—fine particulate matter harmful to health—stands at 70-80 µg/m³ in Karachi and Lahore, while in Helsinki, it is as low as 6-8 µg/m³.
These pollution levels are alarming when compared to cities like Auckland, where stringent environmental policies have kept PM2.5 levels under 5 µg/m³. The stark contrast highlights the urgent need for comprehensive pollution control measures in Pakistan’s major cities.
The rampant pollution in Karachi and Lahore is leading to an increase in eye-related diseases. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, has seen a 30% rise in cases over the past five years. Dry eye syndrome (DES) is another prevalent condition, with over 20% of the population in these cities affected. Exposure to high levels of PM2.5 and PM10 particles also contributes to more severe conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
According to the Pakistan Medical Association, nearly 10 million people in Karachi and Lahore suffer from eye-related issues directly linked to pollution. Among these, approximately 4 million are diagnosed with conjunctivitis annually, and 2.5 million with dry eye syndrome. These numbers are expected to rise if pollution levels continue to climb.
While the situation is dire, steps can be taken to mitigate the effects of pollution on eye health. Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection of conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Using protective eyewear and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollution hours can help reduce exposure. Additionally, increasing indoor air purification efforts and staying hydrated are simple yet effective measures.
Karachi and Lahore’s struggle with pollution is a serious public health concern that demands immediate action. Learning from the examples of cleaner cities like Zurich and Auckland, Pakistan must implement strict environmental regulations and promote public awareness to protect its citizens from the growing threat of pollution-related eye diseases.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance
