Lahore ranked fourth most polluted city in world

Lahore emerged as the fourth most polluted city in the world on Thursday as the AQI in the city was recorded at 237, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Karachi, with the AQI recorded at 230, was ranked the fifth most polluted city in the world.

However, the situation in other cities of Punjab was worst as the AQI in Faisalabad stood at 814, while in Gujranwala at 404.

On the other hand, different sections of the motorway had to be closed for traffic on Thursday after they were engulfed by dense fog.

M-1, connecting Peshawar to Islamabad, was closed for traffic from Peshawar to Rashakai, and M-5 was closed from Zahir Pir to Sher Shah.

Similarly, M-2, a section of the motorway from Lahore to Kot Sarwar, M-3, from Rajana to Darkhana and M-4, from Faisalabad to Multan, had also to be declared off-limits for traffic on account of poor visibility due to fog.

Spokesman for the Motorway Police Syed Imran Ahmad said that the purpose of the closure of motorways was to protect the lives and properties of the people.

He advised motorists to drive in their lanes since violation of lanes in fog could prove costly.

The spokesman also advised road users to first avoid travelling, and if it was really necessary, travel during the daytime. “It is better if you travel between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM in the evening,” he said.

He urged drivers to turn the fog lights of their vehicles on while driving.

Likewise, the spokesman also urged them to avoid driving fast and keep distance from other vehicles.

He advised people to dial helpline number 130 in case of an emergency.

Reporter: Faran Yamin