Exploring mitigation strategies for smog crisis in Lahore: a review for environmental health, and policy implications

Smog, a combined form of atmospheric pollutants, dust, and smoke with fog under sunlight, poses a significant threat to human health and the environment by reducing visibility. Urban air pollution exposure can cause respiratory issues like asthma, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks, high blood pressure, lung cancer, and other health issues like diabetes, cognitive decline, and even birth defects. As smog has become a growing global issue with severe impacts on public health, ecosystems, and economies, this study analyzes its effects and identifies appropriate policies for its mitigation. This study aims to determine effective smog mitigation strategies for Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 50 scientific studies previously published related to PM_2.5 and PM₁₀, NO₂, SO₂, CO, O₃ and Ch₄ were examined in this study. In addition to peer-reviewed scientific research, the smog data from the last decade, from 2014 to 2024, from various sources was analyzed to deduce the necessary information to do so. Furthermore, an online survey was also conducted to gather expert opinions on key smog mitigation policies which were identified in previous studies. The findings highlight five critical areas for reducing smog in Lahore-Pakistan: Nature-based Solutions, Transportation Measures, Industrial Measures, Domestic Measures, and Public Awareness. In addition, the study emphasizes the importance of collaborative partnerships with neighboring countries to address this shared environmental challenge. As a final recommendation, an emergency plan is proposed for smog-heavy days, suggesting temporary controls on vehicle use, industrial production, and outdoor activities to mitigate immediate health risks. By combining scientific evidence, historical data, and expert perspectives, this study offers a comprehensive strategy to address smog in Lahore, further contributing to broader local, regional, and global efforts.