Lahore Becomes Pakistan’s Most Polluted City as Air Quality Worsens

Air pollution in Lahore has reached critical levels, making it the most polluted city in Pakistan and the second most polluted in the world.

According to global air quality monitors, the city’s air is currently 19 times more harmful than the World Health Organization (WHO) safety standards.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in various parts of Lahore has registered dangerous readings, with an overall AQI of 181. Defense Phase 3 Walton tops the list with an AQI of 292, followed by Defense Phase 8 at 248, and Ferozepur Road and Gulberg at 233. The Cantonment area has recorded an AQI of 197, while The Mall and surrounding areas stand at 186.

Health professionals have advised citizens to take precautions when venturing outdoors, especially during the smog season, which has already begun. They recommend wearing masks and protective eyewear, as the concentration of hazardous chemicals in the air is expected to persist throughout October and November.

In contrast, Lahore’s Deputy Commissioner Musa Raza stated that the city’s air quality has improved this year due to pre-smog preventive measures compared to last year. He also mentioned that plans for artificial rain, in collaboration with the Pakistan Army, are ready if the situation deteriorates further.

Raza highlighted the identification of 80 key areas in the city where efforts are being made to remove encroachments that contribute to dust and pollution. Additionally, the Regional Transport Authority has intensified crackdowns on vehicles emitting excessive smoke, and zig-zag technology has been introduced in brick kilns to curb furnace emissions.

Another significant initiative is the strict enforcement against the burning of crop residues, a major cause of smog. Raza emphasized that serious actions are being taken against violators.

Environmental experts warn that the smog situation could worsen in October and November, as weather conditions during these months are particularly conducive to trapping dangerous chemicals in the atmosphere, posing serious health risks to Lahore’s residents.

Follow us on our social media platforms here: Twitter  WHATSAPP CHANNEL FACEBOOK PAGE