Three-Year-Old Girl Petitions LHC Over Lahore Air Pollution

In recent weeks, the city of Lahore has been grappling with severe air pollution, primarily due to dense smog that has enveloped the region. This alarming situation has prompted a unique and unprecedented response: a three-year-old girl named Amal Sukhera has taken the initiative to file a petition in the Lahore High Court (LHC) against the relevant authorities for their failure to address the worsening air quality. This remarkable act highlights the urgent need for action against air pollution, which poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of the city's residents.

Amal's petition, filed through Barrister Ali Zafar, aims to bring attention to the plight of her friends, classmates, and future generations who are suffering from the adverse effects of air pollution. The petition emphasizes that young children and elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable, as they are being "badly affected" by the hazardous air quality. The LHC, recognizing the gravity of the situation, has issued a notice to the environment secretary of Punjab and other officials, demanding their response to this pressing issue.

The air quality in Lahore has reached alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently exceeding 800, and at times even surpassing 1,000. This places Lahore among the cities with the worst air quality in the world. The situation has been exacerbated by pollution carried over from neighboring India, as noted by Punjab’s Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. The prolonged exposure to such dangerous air quality has led to a surge in hospital admissions for respiratory issues, affecting not only Lahore but also other cities in Punjab, including Multan, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala.

As the smog continues to pose a serious health risk, doctors have advised residents to wear masks when going outside. In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Punjab government has taken several measures, including the closure of private and government educational institutions until November 17. Additionally, a mandatory mask policy has been introduced for public spaces, and both public and private offices have been instructed to implement a 50% work-from-home policy. All government meetings are to be conducted online until further notice.

This situation serves as a wake-up call for the authorities and the public alike. The actions taken by a young child to advocate for cleaner air underscore the importance of addressing environmental issues that affect everyone, especially the most vulnerable members of society. It is crucial for the government to take immediate and effective measures to combat air pollution, not only to protect the health of its citizens but also to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. As we reflect on this pressing issue, it becomes clear that collective action and responsibility are essential in the fight against air pollution.