The Hidden Costs of Air Pollution in Rural Pakistan

Air pollution is often seen as a city issue, but it significantly affects rural areas too.

In Pakistan's countryside, pollution comes from farming practices, waste burning, and traditional cooking methods.

Dr. Naseer Memon warns that air pollution leads to serious health problems, including respiratory and heart diseases.

Agriculture, vital to Pakistan’s economy, employs nearly 40% of the workforce and is under threat from pollution.

Unlike city dwellers, rural residents face pollution from wood-burning cookstoves and three-stone fires, releasing harmful particles.

Dr. Fareed Soomro highlights dangers of fine particulate matter, which affects pregnant women and increases risks for children and the elderly.

Dr. Amina emphasizes that long-term exposure can lead to severe respiratory issues. Immediate action is necessary.

Air pollution can reduce crop yields by 10-30%, threatening food security for essential crops like wheat and rice.

Pollution disrupts weather patterns, leading to erratic rainfall and rising temperatures that threaten agriculture.