Lahore, November 7, 2024- Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) remains alarmingly high, solidifying its position as the world’s most polluted city. Early Thursday morning, DHA Phase 8 reported an AQI of 1,254, with the citywide average at 822. According to Swiss IQAir rankings, Lahore led the global pollution chart at 784 AQI, while New Delhi trailed with 433 at around 9 a.m. By midday, Lahore’s AQI decreased to 496.
The Department of Environment reported AQI levels of 876 in Shimla Hills and near the U.S. Consulate, with warnings that smog levels may increase further in the coming days. Health experts urge residents to take precautions, such as wearing masks outdoors.
On Wednesday, Environment Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh mandated mask-wearing in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan divisions. Additionally, Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced the closure of schools up to grade 12 and A-level institutions across these divisions from November 7 to 17 due to the severe smog.
