17 Died due to hazardous air pollution in Kabul

At least 17 people have died of hazardous air pollution over the last week in Kabul.

According to Afghanistan’s health ministry, respiratory infections have become the cause of several deaths.

According to Deputy Minister of Public Health Fida Mohammad Paikan, over 8,800 patients have gone to the government hospitals in a week. They suffered several health issues including lung problems.

The worse air quality in Kabul has created various health problems.

A spokeswoman for the National Environmental Protection Agency of Afghanistan has reported to a news agency that the authorities have begun cracking down on local businesses, as they thought these businesses are responsible for polluting the air.

The municipality and environmental agency has informed that three marriage halls and two property management officers were closed, as they become the reason for heat-related pollution.

Samani told that people have been directed to refrain from the use of coal, scrap tires and plastics for heating and burning.

The local residents have said that poverty and lack of electricity are the reason behind air pollution. They also said that the issue is impossible to solve without the provision of cheaper gas and electricity.

Officials have explained that the use of poor-quality fuel, unavailability of green spaces, unpaved roads, and unorganized settlements have contributed to smog and pollution in the capital.

The government is planning to begin an awareness campaign in mosques in Kabul in a few days.

Few 22 government institutions have also joined forces for starting a campaign to combat air pollution.

Environmental activists have also started a drive to distribute face masks to people.