Smog Crisis in Pakistan: The Urgent Need for Green Transport Solutions

As major cities around the world light up with festive decorations in November, urban centers in northern Pakistan prepare for a very different season—a season shrouded in hazardous smog. From November to February, millions face dangerous air pollution levels, with far-reaching health and economic consequences.

The smog season, Pakistan’s second-largest health threat after cardiovascular disease, sends thousands to hospitals every day. Children are among the hardest hit, suffering from respiratory illnesses and other pollution-related conditions.

Economic and Environmental Toll

The economic impact of smog is staggering. According to the World Bank, air pollution costs Pakistan over $22 billion annually, equivalent to 6% of GDP. The primary contributors include industrial emissions, stubble burning, and most significantly, vehicle emissions. Recent studies reveal that the 6 million vehicles in Lahore alone, including over 4 million motorcycles, account for 83% of the pollution.

As incomes and vehicle ownership rise, pollution levels are expected to worsen unless immediate action is taken.

The Green Transport Initiative: A Step Forward

To tackle this crisis, the Punjab government launched the Green Transport Project, aiming to introduce 1,000 electric buses and enforce stricter penalties on high-emission vehicles. However, experts believe these efforts fall short given the scale of the problem. A coordinated, long-term strategy involving both federal and provincial governments is essential.

Learning from Global Success: The Case of Beijing

Beijing, once labeled the “world’s smog capital,” offers a blueprint for combating urban air pollution. Ahead of the 2008 Olympics, China implemented strict air pollution controls, prioritizing electric public transport and limiting car use in city centers.

Today, battery electric and hybrid vehicles dominate Beijing’s roads, reducing PM2.5 pollution levels by two-thirds over a decade. This transformation highlights the potential of focused policies in tackling environmental challenges.

Pakistan’s Missed Opportunities in EV Adoption

Despite introducing an ambitious EV policy in 2019, Pakistan has made negligible progress. The policy aimed for 30% EV adoption by 2030, targeting 100,000 electric cars, 500,000 two- and three-wheelers, and 1,000 electric buses. Yet, five years later, less than 1% of these goals have been achieved.

Why has Pakistan fallen behind?

1. Policy Implementation Gaps: Incentives to transition from fuel-intensive vehicles to EVs remain insufficient.
2. Protectionist Auto Policies: Outdated localization policies benefit a few foreign companies while discouraging EV imports and local assembly.
3. High Import Taxes: Heavy tariffs on built-up EVs prevent affordable models from entering the market.

Lessons from Thailand: A Forward-Looking Strategy

Thailand, known as the “Detroit of Asia,” demonstrates how effective policies can accelerate EV adoption. By lowering import taxes under the China-Asean Free Trade Agreement, Thailand has attracted $2 billion in EV investments, positioning itself as a regional export hub.

Pakistan, on the other hand, continues to spend billions importing fuel and assembling vehicles with outdated technology. These vehicles consume three times more energy than electric alternatives, worsening both the environment and the economy.

The Cost of Inaction

The consequences of Pakistan’s inaction are dire. Smog-related costs exceed $20 billion annually, in addition to billions spent on fuel imports. Urban centers in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are becoming increasingly unlivable due to pollution and declining quality of life.

The Way Forward

Pakistan needs an immediate policy overhaul to curb transport emissions and embrace sustainable solutions. Key actions include:

• Expanding EV Incentives: Reduce import taxes and encourage local EV assembly.
• Enhancing Public Transport: Invest in electric buses and mass transit systems.
• Phasing Out High-Emission Vehicles: Implement stricter emissions standards.
• Learning from Global Models: Adopt best practices from countries like China and Thailand.

Conclusion

Pakistan stands at a crossroads. With rising pollution levels and mounting economic losses, decisive action is the only way forward. Embracing green transport solutions and adopting a sustainable EV policy could transform the country’s urban centers and improve the lives of millions.