LAHORE – The intensity of air pollution in Lahore and other major cities of Punjab remains alarmingly high this morning.
Punjab capital Lahore continues to lead the list of the world’s most polluted cities, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at a hazardous 420.
Faisalabad reported particulate matter levels of 622, Multan 485, and Bahawalpur 255. Experts have urged residents to wear masks and take necessary precautions, particularly children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.
According to global air pollution monitoring agency IQAir, New Delhi ranks second among the world’s most polluted cities, followed by Dhaka in third place, Kolkata in fourth, and Karachi in fifth with an AQI of 165.
The worsening situation in Lahore is attributed to easterly winds carrying pollutants from Indian Punjab. Low wind speeds and cooler temperatures are causing harmful particles to remain suspended in the atmosphere, resulting in haze and reduced visibility. Pollution levels are expected to rise during morning, evening, and nighttime hours, with slight improvement anticipated between 1 PM and 6 PM.
In response, the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) has deployed 16 mechanical washers and 50 anti-smog washers. Around 400 workers are engaged in road washing and water sprinkling operations morning and evening, covering over 300 kilometers of major roads including Jail Road, Main Boulevard Gulberg, Noor Jahan Road, MM Alam Road, GT Road, Band Road, Ravi Road, Shahdara, Saggian, Nazaria-i-Pakistan Road, and Ferozepur Road.
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has emphasized the importance of wearing masks at all times to protect against hazardous air conditions.
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