Economic and Public Health Impacts of Transportation-Driven Air Pollution in South Asia

Saman Janaranjana Herath Bandara () and Nisanshani Thilakarathne
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Saman Janaranjana Herath Bandara: Department of Economics, Finance and Marketing, College of Business and Social Sciences, West Virginia State University, Institute, WV 25112, USA
Nisanshani Thilakarathne: Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture (PGIA), University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 5, 1-23

Abstract: South Asia, a rapidly urbanizing and industrializing region, faces critical air quality challenges, with transportation emissions becoming a major source of urban pollution. These emissions contribute significantly to public health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, while imposing substantial economic burdens on affected populations. This study aims to examine regional trends, evaluate the economic impact of transportation-driven air pollution, and offer actionable insights for policy development. Using a narrative review approach, the study synthesizes evidence on air quality, transportation emissions, and public health in major South Asian cities. Key findings reveal that in Sri Lanka, transportation emissions, driven by traffic congestion and industrial activity, worsen respiratory conditions, especially in Colombo. In India, cities like Delhi suffer from severe health risks linked to pollution from the growing transportation sector. Pakistan’s expanding transportation sector increases energy consumption and emissions, particularly in Lahore, which experiences significant health impacts. In Bangladesh, Dhaka faces intense pollution due to urbanization and vehicle growth, while Kathmandu in Nepal struggles with diesel vehicle emissions. The economic burden of transportation-driven air pollution is considerable, with rising healthcare costs and productivity losses in major cities. The study recommends cleaner transportation technologies, enhanced public transit, and regional cooperation to address pollution, urging a comprehensive approach to urban planning and sustainable transport infrastructure for improved air quality and economic resilience in South Asia’s cities.

Keywords: transportation emissions; public health impact; economic burden (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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