Pakistan is suffering massive economic and health damage because of worsening air pollution, Senator Sherry Rehman informed lawmakers during a recent Senate meeting.
She said the country is losing around $22 billion every year, an amount equal to 6.5% of Pakistan’s GDP, because pollution continues to rise without strong control measures.
According to her, smog in Punjab has reached dangerous levels and is putting millions at risk. She noted that around 11 million children under the age of five in the province are directly affected by toxic air. The situation, she warned, is getting worse each year.
The senator also shared alarming health statistics. Air pollution is now responsible for 256,000 deaths annually a number that is double previous estimates. She added that pollution shortens the average Pakistani’s life by 3.7 to 4.6 years, showing how deeply harmful the problem has become for the population.
Senator Rehman pointed out that brick kilns, factories, and increasing numbers of vehicles are the main sources of harmful emissions. However, she criticised the authorities for not maintaining proper and accurate pollution data, saying that without reliable facts, the government cannot design meaningful policies.
She further highlighted that Lahore continues to rank among the most polluted cities in the world, with smog thickening during the winter months. The senator urged all institutions to take urgent and coordinated steps to protect citizens especially children—from long-term damage.
She concluded by saying that Pakistan must treat air pollution as a national emergency to safeguard public health and prevent further economic losses.
