LAHORE – The smog crisis intensifies across several regions of Pakistan, with Lahore once again suffering the most severe impacts. On Tuesday morning, the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a staggering 347, with particulate matter concentrations (PM2.5) soaring well above World Health Organization (WHO) safety recommendations.
Certain areas in Lahore, such as Gulberg and Maratab Ali Road, reported alarming AQI levels exceeding 500, marking them as some of the most polluted spots in the world. Just a day prior, the AQI in parts of the city spiked to an alarming 700, categorizing the air quality as highly hazardous.
In response to this worsening situation, the Punjab government has adjusted school timings across the provincial capital. Starting October 28, classes in all public and private schools will commence at 8:45 AM, a measure expected to remain in effect until January 31, 2025. Additionally, school assemblies will be conducted indoors, and outdoor activities for students have been restricted until conditions improve.
A smog alert has been issued in Punjab, as the province grapples with severe pollution exacerbated by toxic emissions from neighboring regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar. Citizens are urged to take precautions, such as wearing masks outdoors, keeping children indoors, and avoiding travel to heavily polluted areas. With visibility diminishing, especially during early mornings and late evenings, careful driving is highly recommended.
Health experts have issued warnings about the potential for flu, skin allergies, and eye irritations due to the poor air quality. Environmental specialists point to the use of low-quality fuels, particularly in the cottage industry near Bund Road, as a significant factor contributing to the air quality decline. They argue that government measures to combat pollution have been ineffective, with carbon emissions, stubble burning, and transboundary pollution as primary culprits.
Moreover, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and other agencies are engaged in patch road repairs, leading to increased heavy machinery traffic. Many vehicles operated by public departments, such as LWMC and WASA, are reportedly unfit for the road, exacerbating the pollution crisis.
In an effort to combat the deteriorating air quality, a ban on fireworks has been imposed in Lahore until January 31, 2025. The traffic police have also initiated operations targeting smoke-emitting vehicles, urging motorists to exercise caution amid reduced visibility.
