Socio-Economic Factors of Rising Air Pollution in Mingora City, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

The present study has been conducted in Mingora city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and the sole aim was to find out the social and economic factors contributing to the air pollution, which is a serious environmental and public health problem in urban areas of Pakistan, including Mingora city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. There are several factors which contribute to this problem; social and economic conditions are the deeply rooted contributing factors in the case of Mingora city. The five most populated and affected union councils were selected to observe the phenomenon. The aforementioned union councils are Saidu Sharif, Haji Baba, Mula Baba, Rahim Abad and Shah Dara. A significant association was found between socioeconomic factors and Air pollution. Permanent citizens of Mingora city prefer using personal vehicles instead of public transport. The lack of public awareness about environmental protection worsens air quality. Rapid urbanization and construction activities are increasing air pollution in Mingora. Furthermore, current pollution levels are a threat to future generations, which leads to air pollution, and the worst Socio-Economic conditions have negatively affected the air quality of Mingora city. In addition, the absence of public transport, preference to personal vehicles, increase in the number of Rickshaws and NCP vehicles have negatively affected Air Quality. Lack of institutional focus, public awareness about environmental protection and poor discipline contribute to air pollution. It is therefore suggested that the residents should be aware of their environment and protect it from pollution by discouraging harmful activities. The concerned authorities should take strict action against air-polluting vehicles. The government and other organizations also take strict and strong action against outdated vehicles and rickshaws, and concentrate on their regulation. They should also observe other industrial and waste disposal activities to get rid of air pollution and restore the beauty of Mingora City. 

Key words: Socio-Economic Factors, Air pollution, Urban Environment