Lahore Struggles with Severe Smog, Tops Global Pollution Charts Again
Grey Skies and Poor Air Quality
Lahore, the capital of Punjab, woke up to grey skies once again on Monday, topping the global pollution charts with an alarming air quality index (AQI) of 532, according to IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitoring agency. This marks almost a week with Lahore listed as the world’s most polluted city, signaling an intensifying smog crisis.
Causes of Worsening Smog
With winter temperatures dropping, the city’s AQI has soared due to trapped pollutants such as construction dust, vehicle emissions, and industrial smoke. The Punjab Environment Protection Department recently issued a smog alert after AQI levels hit a hazardous 700, urging citizens to take precautionary measures. Residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed, wear masks if they need to go outside, and minimize outdoor activities.
Safety Precautions for Residents
The worsening smog has led to adjusted school schedules, banned outdoor activities in educational institutions, and heightened traffic advisories for safer commuting. Traffic authorities have particularly advised motorcyclists to exercise caution as reduced visibility makes navigation challenging.
Comparative Pollution Levels
Neighbouring New Delhi remains second on the pollution charts with an AQI of 268. Both cities typically top pollution rankings during winter as temperature inversion traps pollutants closer to the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. Karachi also joined the top 10 polluted cities with an AQI of 123, classified as “unhealthy” for sensitive groups.
Anticipated Weather Conditions
The Pakistan Meteorological Department anticipates foggy and smoggy conditions to persist from November to mid-December. Poor air quality, especially in densely populated cities, continues to pose severe health risks, particularly respiratory problems. A recent report indicated that rising pollution levels may reduce life expectancy by more than five years across South Asia, one of the most affected regions globally.
