Multan and the surrounding areas in southern Punjab are under the reign of intense smog, with hazardous pollution levels affecting children’s health.
Over 600 children have been admitted to the Children’s Hospital in the past week, suffering from respiratory and skin diseases due to rising air pollution.
Nadia, a local mother, shared, “Due to the smog, my daughter’s health worsened. I had to rush her to the children’s hospital as she struggled to breathe.”
Dr. Asifa, a physician at the hospital, warned, "Chest infections are increasing with the smog, leading to pneumonia and exacerbating asthma complications among children."
Medical professionals are urging parents to use protective masks and avoid exposing children to cold drinks to mitigate health risks.
Meanwhile, in Alipur, traditional brick kilns lacking zigzag technology are identified as a major contributor to the smog. Toxic fumes from these kilns are causing respiratory issues and other illnesses in the community. Malik Sajjad, reporting from Alipur, stated that residents are calling on Deputy Commissioner Muzaffargarh and Commissioner Dera Ghazi Khan to take immediate action.
In Tehsil Karolal Aisan of Leyyah, local authorities pledging to shut down kilns operating without zigzag technology. Assistant Commissioner confirmed that several coal furnaces have already been demolished, with further operations underway to control pollution and smog in the region.
The worsening smog situation has prompted demands for strict environmental regulations and immediate action to protect public health across southern Punjab.
