AIR pollution takes an estimated seven million lives every year across the world. It is one of the major problems of Karachi which has aggravated owing to the neglect of the authorities.

Air pollution can be reduced by planting trees across the greenbelts. Neem tree is a better choice for this task as it grows to sufficient height and provides shade as well. Tree plantation also reduces atmospheric temperature. Neem is a medicinal plant which supports the respiratory system, skin health and provides numerous other medical benefits to the people.

The horticulture department of Karachi should plant these trees across the city, while the government should get rid of encroachments over greenbelts.

Abdul Ghafoor Malik
Karachi

Published in Dawn, October 23rd, 2020