Introduction
Every year, as winter approaches, Pakistan experiences a thick blanket of fog and smog, especially in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Sindh. Roads disappear under dense fog, flights and trains are delayed, and people struggle with breathing and eye irritation. While fog is a natural weather phenomenon, smog is a dangerous mix of smoke and pollutants that affect the environment, health, economy, and daily life. Understanding why fog and smog form and how they can be controlled is essential for both the public and policymakers.
This article explores the main causes, health impacts, economic effects, and practical solutions to Pakistan’s fog and smog problem.
What Is Fog and How Is It Different From Smog?
Fog is a natural process. It forms when the air near the ground becomes cold and can no longer hold moisture, resulting in tiny water droplets suspended in the air. Fog usually occurs during winter nights and early mornings.
Smog, on the other hand, is a harmful mixture of smoke, dust, industrial chemicals, vehicle emissions, and weather conditions. It looks similar to fog but is toxic. In Pakistan, the term “smog season” generally refers to the period from October to January, when pollution levels rise dramatically and mix with winter fog.
Why Is Fog and Smog Increasing in Pakistan?
1. Rapid Urbanization and Population Growth
Cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Karachi have expanded quickly. With more people living in limited spaces, the number of vehicles and industries has increased. This results in higher emissions that become trapped near the ground during winter.
2. Vehicle Emissions
Old cars, motorcycles, rickshaws, and poorly maintained buses release large amounts of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Pakistan has millions of such vehicles, and most lack modern filters that reduce pollution.
3. Industrial Pollution
Factories that burn coal, furnace oil, or low-quality fuel release smoke that mixes with moisture during winter, forming smog. Brick kilns, steel mills, and small manufacturing units are major contributors.
4. Crop Burning in Punjab
Farmers in parts of Pakistan and neighboring countries burn leftover crop residue (stubble burning) to clear fields for the next harvest. The smoke rises and spreads across the region, adding to smog formation.
5. Construction Dust
Large-scale construction projects generate dust that remains suspended in the air. Without proper management, this dust becomes a major contributor to winter pollution.
6. Weather and Climate Conditions
During winter, the wind speed in Pakistan becomes very low. Cold air gets trapped near the surface, preventing pollutants from rising and dispersing. This weather pattern is known as temperature inversion, which directly increases smog levels.
Regions Most Affected by Fog and Smog in Pakistan
1. Lahore
Lahore consistently ranks among the world’s most polluted cities during winter. High traffic, industrial zones, and dense population make smog a serious issue.
2. Faisalabad
Known for its textile industries, Faisalabad faces pollution from factories and burning waste.
3. Gujranwala and Sialkot
These cities have a high number of small factories, brick kilns, and industrial workshops.
4. Islamabad & Rawalpindi
Although cleaner than other cities, smog still increases during December and January.
5. Karachi
Humidity, traffic pollution, and industrial activities contribute to smog, though visibility remains better than Punjab.
Health Impacts of Smog on Pakistan’s Population
Smog is not just an environmental issue—it is a serious public health emergency. Medical experts report a rise in hospital visits during smog season.
1. Breathing Problems
People with asthma, COPD, and allergies suffer the most. Even healthy individuals experience coughing, short breaths, and chest tightness.
2. Eye Irritation
Chemical particles in smog can cause red, watery, and itchy eyes.
3. Skin Problems
Prolonged exposure leads to dryness, rashes, and premature aging.
4. Increased Risk of Heart Disease
Pollutants enter the bloodstream and can contribute to heart attacks and strokes.
5. Reduced Immunity in Children
Children exposed to smog often experience repeated colds, flu, and throat infections.
Economic and Social Impacts
1. Transportation Disruptions
Dense fog reduces visibility, causing highway closures, train delays, and canceled flights. This affects trade and travel.
2. Loss of Productivity
Workers cannot reach offices on time, and businesses face delays in shipping goods.
3. Agricultural Losses
Fog blocks sunlight, affecting crop growth in wheat, vegetables, and fruits.
4. Increased Healthcare Costs
Families spend more on doctors, medicines, and hospital visits during smog season.
Solutions to Reduce Fog and Smog in Pakistan
While fog cannot be eliminated because it is a natural weather process, smog can be controlled through proper policies and public awareness.
1. Promoting Clean Transportation
- Electric bikes and cars
- Public buses with low-emission engines
- Vehicle fitness and pollution tests
- Carpooling and ride-sharing
2. Controlling Industrial Emissions
- Installing scrubbers and filters
- Shifting from coal to cleaner fuel
- Regulation of brick kilns through zig-zag technology
3. Banning Crop Burning
The government should provide farmers with machines that recycle crop residue instead of burning it.
4. Planting More Trees
Urban forests and green belts reduce carbon dioxide and improve air quality.
5. Awareness Campaigns
People must be educated to avoid burning garbage, plastic, and tyres.
6. Weather Forecasting and Early Warnings
Mobile apps and government alerts can warn citizens about dangerous smog levels.
What People Can Do to Protect Themselves
1. Wear N95 or Medical Masks
These help filter harmful particles when pollution levels are high.
2. Stay Indoors During Peak Smog Hours
Especially early morning and late night when visibility is lowest.
3. Use Air Purifiers
Helpful for people with asthma, allergies, or infants.
4. Keep Windows Closed
Especially on days when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is dangerous.
5. Drink Plenty of Water
Hydration helps the body fight pollutants.