Several cities in Punjab continue to be shrouded in dense smog, with Lahore leading the global pollution rankings as the world’s most polluted city, recording an AQI of 790.
The Meteorological Office has forecasted rain across many Punjab districts from today until November 16, offering a potential break from the pollution. Recent morning Air Quality Index reports highlighted dangerously high pollution levels, with smog affecting 10 districts. Lahore recorded an AQI peak of 1,038, while Bahawalpur, Multan, and Faisalabad reported AQI readings of 451, 425, and 405, respectively.
The health impact has been significant, with residents experiencing eye irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues, severely disrupting daily activities. After Lahore, Multan has the second-highest AQI in the country at 451, followed by Peshawar (285), Haripur (223), and Rawalpindi (220).
In response, Lahore’s administration has stepped up inspections, sealing 75 shops, a marriage hall, and 14 restaurants for violating SOPs. Poor visibility has led to the closure of several motorway sections. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has blamed the worsening air quality on eastern winds carrying pollution from India, with Environment Secretary Jahangir Anwar confirming that these winds have intensified Lahore’s air pollution.
Environmental officials have warned that Lahore’s AQI has reached alarming levels, nearing 1,000. The smog, a combination of fog, diesel emissions, seasonal crop burning, and colder winter air, has resulted in hazardous pollution levels, with PM2.5 particles hitting 1,067—well beyond the safe air quality limits set by the World Health Organization.
