Kurdish Studies

Environmental Inequity In Punjab: The Impact Of Industrial Pollution On Low-Income Communities In Attock District

Shehryar Hassan
Aitazaz Hassan
Keywords: Environment, environmental degradation, Industrial pollution, Health Impact, Awareness.

Abstract

The industries are crucial for a country's development, especially with the increasing population. while industries produce useful products, they also generate waste that leads to environmental problems (1). Objectives of the study are, to identify the primary sources of pollution in Attock District, also, to explore the health issues faced by the local community, to determine the level of awareness and knowledge about pollution-related health risks and to assess the perception of industrial pollution among residents. This study focuses on three industrially affected areas in Attock District, which included Pindigheb, Hassanabdal, and Hazro due to their proximity to factories, textile mills, brick kilns, and small-scale workshops. A mixed-methods research design was used in this study, data for this study was collected through questionnaires and semi structured interviews. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 50 participants from the population of residents living near these industrial areas, while 10 participants who lived for years near industries were interviewed to gain deeper insights. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, and qualitative data was analyzed by thematic analysis. The findings of the study indicate that textile mills, brick kilns, and small scale workshops are the primary sources of pollution in Attock, contributing to poor air and water quality. Residents reported that due to pollution they are facing respiratory diseases (Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Bronchitis, Lung Cancer) also Skin Disease (Rashes and Skin Irritation, Dermatitis), Gastrointestinal Diseases (Diarrhea, Typhoid, Gastroenteritis) and Mental Health problem (Stress and Anxiety, feeling of Hopelessness) which are particularly common among children and the elderly. The study also revealed a significant level of awareness among residents about the dangers of polluted air and water, though there are gaps in education and reporting mechanisms. The research aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), highlighting the need for urgent intervention to mitigate the environmental and health inequalities in low-income communities disproportionately affected by industrial pollution. The findings are crucial for policymakers and public health professionals aiming to implement effective pollution control measures and improve the quality of life in industrially impacted regions.
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