UNICEF Urges Pakistan to Combat Hazardous Air Pollution Threatening Millions of Children

UNICEF's representative Abdullah Fadil has called on Pakistan's government to urgently tackle severe air pollution affecting 11 million children in Punjab. The Air Quality Index has surpassed critical levels, forcing school closures and endangering public health. Immediate action is needed to protect the health and well-being of young children.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) representative, Abdullah Fadil, has issued an urgent plea to the Pakistani government, highlighting the critical need for swift measures to combat dangerous air pollution levels in Punjab. According to reports, a staggering 11 million children are currently at risk due to the inhalation of toxic air.

As reported by Dawn, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Punjab has soared past 400 in multiple districts, with Sialkot recording an alarming 774. In response to deteriorating air quality, authorities have ordered the closure of schools until November 17 and restricted public access to parks, zoos, playgrounds, and museums to mitigate exposure to smog.

Fadil expressed profound concern over the health of young children, emphasizing that over 11 million children under five are vulnerable in the most affected areas. Prior to the current crisis, air pollution accounted for approximately 12 percent of deaths among Pakistani children under five. Fadil stresses the urgency of addressing this escalating issue to safeguard children's rights to clean air and avert further health repercussions.

(With inputs from agencies.)