LAHORE – Lahore, once known as the city of orchards, has once again topped the list of the most polluted cities in Pakistan due to polluted winds blowing from India.
The latest reports suggested that the winds from Indian Punjab entered Pakistan, and caused a significant increase in air pollution levels, particularly in Punjab. This led to a deterioration in the air quality in several cities, with Lahore recording the highest levels of particulate matter in the country.
Lahore’s air quality remained hazardous in the morning earlier in the day, with a particulate matter concentration of 459, making it the most polluted city in Pakistan.
Faisalabad followed closely with 424 particulate matter while Multan recorded 378, and Rojhan reported 275.
As a result of the worsening air quality, Lahore and other affected cities in Punjab are experiencing heavy smog, which has led to health advisories being issued for residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government announced a relaxation in restrictions related to smog.
A notification has been issued allowing recreational and tourist spots across the province to reopen after being closed for several weeks due to the smog crisis.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) also provided an update on the weather conditions. The department stated that there is no expectation of rain in the plains of the country, and the weather will remain cold and dry over the coming days.
However, in Gilgit-Baltistan, the skies are expected to be cloudy with light rain at isolated locations, and there may be light snowfall on the mountain ranges.
The authorities urged the residents of Lahore and other affected cities to take precautionary measures including avoiding outdoor activities, wearing masks and limiting exposure to the polluted air.
