Lahore ranks as the second most polluted city in the world, with PM2.5 levels dangerously exceeding WHO limits.
Lahore, Pakistan, has once again been engulfed in hazardous levels of air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) spiking to 529, according to reports by Dawn. This dire situation places Lahore as the second most polluted city globally, with PM2.5 concentrations reaching 35.6 times higher than the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Hazardous Readings Across the City
Key locations in Lahore reported alarmingly high AQI levels:
- Polo Ground, Cantonment: 896
- Honda Gateway: 814
- Powerzone Head Office: 752
- Valancia Town: 605
- Askari-X: 569
Residents describe the city as cloaked in a "thick blanket of smoke," with many experiencing severe respiratory issues, eye irritation, and other health concerns.
Fatima, a local resident, expressed her worries:
"The air feels like smoke. My children are coughing constantly, and it's hard to breathe."
Dr. Ahmed, a pulmonologist at Lahore General Hospital, warned of the long-term effects:
"We are seeing an increase in hospital admissions due to respiratory issues. Prolonged exposure to such pollution levels could result in lung diseases, heart conditions, and even premature death. Immediate action is critical."
Government Measures to Combat Pollution
To address the crisis, the Punjab government has initiated a series of measures:
- Dust Control: Water sprinklers will be installed at 1,500 construction sites.
- Emission Reduction: 96% of Lahore’s industries now have emission control systems in place.
- Construction Regulations: Green covers have been made mandatory to reduce dust spread.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated:
"We are taking strict actions against violators of environmental laws. Our goal is to provide a clean and healthy environment for all residents."
Experts Recommend More Robust Action
The Pakistan Air Quality Experts (PAQE) group has urged stronger action, releasing an advisory outlining short-term and long-term measures. Recommendations include:
- Temporarily shutting down brick kilns and smelters.
- Banning unnecessary heavy vehicle entry into the city during high pollution days.
However, PAQE criticised the Punjab government’s Smog Mitigation Plan for failing to address the main sources of pollution and called for evidence-based interventions to combat Lahore’s ongoing air quality crisis.
The Road Ahead
As Lahore grapples with hazardous air, immediate and sustained efforts are needed to protect public health and combat the worsening environmental crisis. The city's residents await further action to ensure cleaner and safer air for future generations.
