Lahore, November 12,2024- The toxic smog blanketing Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has thickened, making the air difficult to breathe. Once again, Lahore tops the list of the world’s most polluted cities, with an alarming air quality index (AQI) of 968.
In Lahore, the AQI levels in several areas have reached dangerous levels: DHA recorded an AQI of 1236, Johar Town 991, Syed Maratib Ali Road 1256, and Ghazi Road Interchange 904. Other cities in the region are also severely affected, with Multan’s AQI reaching 800, Peshawar at 258, Faisalabad 252, and Islamabad 253.
The smog has led to a surge in health issues, including dry cough, breathing difficulties, pneumonia in children, and chest infections. Over 35,000 patients have visited Lahore’s five major public hospitals in the past week due to these conditions.
According to the Meteorological Department, a system of western winds is expected to enter Pakistan on November 14, potentially enabling artificial rainfall if light clouds form.
Smog Visible from Space
U.S. media has reported that the severity of Pakistan’s smog is now visible from space. Recent satellite images from NASA reveal thick smog over Lahore and Multan during the weekend, with roads and buildings shrouded in haze.
Meanwhile, efforts to enforce an 8 p.m. closure for shops, malls, and markets in Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala due to the smog have seen mixed compliance. Shops remaining open past 8 p.m. have been sealed.
Additionally, the government has imposed a ban on outdoor dining, sports, exhibitions, and events from November 11 to November 17. Exemptions apply for medical stores, laboratories, petrol stations, and grocery stores.
