Navigating Pollution: Rohri’s Struggle for Clean Air and Water

Pollution in Rohri, Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan: A Tale of Urban and Rural Challenges

INTRODUCTION

Rohri, a historic city nestled along the banks of the mighty Indus River, faces a dual battle against pollution. As part of the Sukkur district in Sindh, Pakistan, Rohri grapples with environmental issues that impact both its urban and rural communities. Let's delve into the complexities of pollution in this region.

Urban vs. Rural: A Dichotomy

Urban Areas

1. Karachi – The City of Lights:

Characteristics: Known for its mesmerizing night time glow and pristine shoreline, Karachi is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions.

Language Diversity: While most people speak Sindhi, Seraiki, Thari, and Balochi in rural districts, urban Karachi boasts a linguistic tapestry that includes Urdu, Punjabi, and Pashto.

  Challenges: Despite its vibrancy, Karachi faces significant environmental hurdles. Air pollution, inadequate healthcare facilities, and traffic congestion are pressing concerns.

2. Hyderabad and Khairpur:

 Part of Sindh Urban: These regions exhibit better access to goods, services, and resources. They are hubs of commerce, education, and infrastructure development.

Rural Areas

1. Sindh Rural Districts:

  Badin, Sanghar, Tharparker, and Dadu: These districts epitomize the challenges faced by rural Sindh.

   Resource Deficit: Inadequate medical facilities, high poverty rates, and unemployment plague these areas.

Healthcare Struggles: Millions of rural dwellers battle health issues, including Hepatitis C and measles. Infant mortality remains a grim reality.

Education and Development: While some progress has been made in terms of schools, libraries, and roads, development indicators remain stubbornly low.

2. AIR QUALITY IN ROHRI:

Unhealthy Air:  Rohri's Air Quality Index (AQI) often registers as unhealthy³. Factors like industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and dust contribute to this alarming situation.

Water Quality: Groundwater and surface water quality also warrant attention. Monitoring total coliform, E. coli, and heterotrophic plate count (HPC) levels is crucial⁴.

The Road Ahead

1. Collaboration: Addressing pollution requires collective efforts. Government agencies, NGOs, and citizens must collaborate to improve air and water quality.

2. Sustainable Practices:  Encouraging sustainable practices, promoting green spaces, and investing in clean energy are essential steps.

3. Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about pollution's impact and advocating for responsible behaviour can drive positive change.

References:

Sindh Rural Vs Sindh Urban - Major Differences

Why pollution is so high in Pakistan's cities

Rohri Air Quality Index (AQI) and Pakistan Air Pollution

Drinking water quality in Rohri City, Sindh, Pakistan

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