For the third consecutive day, Lahore has been ranked as the world’s most polluted city, with air quality plunging to hazardous levels and a thick blanket of smog covering the metropolis.
The 24NewsHD TV Channel reported on Sunday that the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reached an alarming 212 percent, with readings in several adjoining areas soaring to 400.
Data released by the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) showed that Shahdara was the most affected locality, recording an AQI of 418.
Other severely impacted areas included Iqbal Town (577), Syed Maratib Ali Road (543), Shadman (507), Punjab University (506), and Shalimar (495).
The stretch from Ali Town to Harbanspura recorded an AQI of 338, underscoring the scale of the crisis.
Environmental experts have advised citizens to limit outdoor activities, especially during the morning and evening hours, and to wear protective masks when outdoors.
Lahore’s PM2.5 concentration remains several times above international safety limits, posing severe health risks including respiratory and cardiovascular complications, particularly among children and the elderly.
PDMA alert:
The PDMA has issued a high alert across eastern districts of Punjab including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and Khanpur.
“The intensity of smog is expected to increase from November to mid-December,” warned PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia, citing meteorological forecasts. He directed all commissioners and deputy commissioners to enforce government anti-smog measures effectively.
Authorities have rolled out a comprehensive strategy to curb pollution at its source, including a strict ban on the burning of crop residue, solid waste, tires, plastics, and rubber.
DG Kathia stated that legal action would be taken against anyone found violating these regulations, with cases to be registered against offenders involved in stubble or garbage burning.
Weather in Islamabad Karachi
In Karachi, temperatures are expected to hover between 37°C and 39°C, with the city ranking sixth in global air pollution levels.
The concentration of particulate matter in Karachi’s air was reported at 161 micrograms per cubic meter.
Meanwhile, Islamabad is expected to experience dry weather with temperatures slightly lower than the previous day, winds blowing at 7 km/h, and humidity recorded at 44 percent.
Meteorological forecasts indicate no chance of rain in the next 24 hours.
Reporters: Rana Faran Yameen, Aqsa Shahid, and Hashir Warraich