Environmental and Socio-Economic Impact of Open Dumping of Solid Waste on Demographic Situation in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

This study presents a socio-economic analysis of the pervasive impact of open dumping of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in Lahore, Pakistan. Focusing specifically on the Mehmood Booti dumpsite, the research evaluates its environmental and health implications on populations residing within a 2-3 km radius, comparing these findings with a control area located 10-15 km away under similar geographical and socio-economic conditions. Data were collected through pretested questionnaires administered to 400 respondents from the study area and 200 from the control area. Statistical analysis, primarily utilizing SPSS software for descriptive statistics and inferential tests (independent sample t-Test, Levene’s Test, Chi-square Test, and Cross Tabulation), revealed that while both areas are susceptible to negative environmental impacts, the dumpsite proximity significantly increases vulnerability. This paper details the initial demographic and awareness findings, laying the groundwork for subsequent determination of the Cost of Illness (COI) for prevalent regular and serious diseases, including skin diseases, eye irritation, respiratory ailments, diarrhea, fever, typhoid, and cholera, and the consequent socio-economic losses