Smog in Lahore. Photo file: REUTERS
Lahore has climbed to second place among the world’s most polluted cities, according to global air quality monitoring organization IQAir. On Sunday, the city’s air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 209, placing it just behind India’s capital, New Delhi, which topped the list with an AQI of 218.
The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that easterly winds have contributed to worsening smog conditions across Lahore. The agency predicted the city’s average AQI would remain between 195 and 210 throughout the day, classified as “very unhealthy.” Experts have further warned that air quality could deteriorate in the coming days due to increased firework displays during India’s Diwali celebrations.
Environmental health experts have described this level of pollution as dangerous, especially for children, the elderly and those suffering from respiratory diseases, and advised them to stay indoors and limit outdoor exposure.
Read: East wind aggravates Lahore smog
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, wind speeds are expected to range from 1 to 9 kilometers per hour, which may temporarily improve air quality around noon. AQI is expected to drop to 150 between 12.00. and 5 p.m., before rising again to between 165 and 200 in the evening hours.
In response to worsening conditions, the Punjab government has intensified its anti-smog operations in Lahore. On the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Environmental Protection Force, police, Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) and the district administration have launched joint operations against smoke-emitting and overloaded vehicles entering the city. Trucks and wagons transporting construction material without proper cover are also stopped.
To control dust emissions, nightly water sprinkling is carried out on construction sites. The Chief Minister has directed all relevant departments to submit daily progress reports and increase public awareness campaigns regarding smog prevention.
Read more: Punjab bans use of charcoal, wood in eateries to curb deteriorating air quality
Meanwhile, the campaign against stump burning continues across Punjab. The provincial government has deployed 91 balers and 814 Kubota machines to collect crop residues from thousands of acres and convert them into feed bales. Experts say this initiative represents a positive step towards reducing air pollution and mitigating the effects of smog.
