Syed Muhammad Qaseem:
Quetta has been declared the city with the best air quality in Pakistan, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 31, indicating a “good” and healthy atmosphere.
While many cities across Pakistan are grappling with rising pollution levels and dense smog, Quetta stands out with its remarkably clean air. The EPA’s latest report highlights Quetta as an exception in a country where urban centers are struggling to combat air pollution caused by vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and crop burning.
Residents and environmentalists have welcomed this development, attributing Quetta’s clear skies to its geographical location, lower population density, and relatively fewer industrial emissions. This milestone offers hope and sets an example for other cities to prioritize sustainable environmental practices.
As Pakistan battles deteriorating air quality nationwide, including hazardous conditions in Lahore and Karachi, Quetta’s achievement underscores the importance of regional environmental policies and natural factors in maintaining cleaner air.
Efforts to sustain Quetta’s air quality should focus on promoting green initiatives, limiting vehicle emissions, and preserving its natural environment. This recognition also serves as a call to action for other cities to adopt measures that ensure healthier living conditions for their populations.
Quetta’s success story offers a much-needed breath of fresh air, inspiring other urban centers to aim for a cleaner, greener future.