At 1600 AQI, Lahore becomes world’s most polluted city as smog crisis deepens
Lahore's air pollution
Pakistan's Lahore along with some other regions of the South Asian country are experiencing the worst air quality in the world this November.
Lahore has recorded some of the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) levels globally. On Friday (Nov 15), one area in the city reported an AQI nearing 1600.
Data from Swiss monitoring organisation IQAir showed that the CERP Office area in Lahore recorded a 'hazardous' AQI of 1587 on Friday morning. Additionally, three other areas, Syed Maratib Ali Road, Pakistan Engineering Services offices, and VTS, also saw AQI levels surpassing 1000 on the same day.
No respite despite emergency pollution-control measures
Considering the situation, local authorities have imposed several emergency pollution-control measures. However, despite government efforts to reduce pollution, the air quality in the city continues to deteriorate.
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Schools, parks, and museums have been closed until the end of the week. Mask mandates have been enforced, and workplaces have been instructed to reduce their operations.
15,000 cases of respiratory and viral infections within 24 hours
Aside from the worsening air quality, Pakistan is also struggling with dense smog. This hazardous combination of falling temperatures and poor air quality has also led to health crises.
According to Ary News, Lahore alone reported over 15,000 cases of respiratory and viral infections within 24 hours.
To combat the smog and pollution, Pakistan's government has introduced several measures. These include a three-month ban on weddings and updated transportation guidelines aimed at reducing emissions.
Schools and colleges in Punjab province have also been shut down temporarily as part of these efforts.
Currently, Lahore and Multan rank as the most polluted cities in the world. Health facilities are overwhelmed, with over 70,000 individuals seeking treatment daily for smog-related illnesses.
The worsening smog is largely attributed to emissions from vehicles, industrial and construction activities, and the widespread practice of crop burning during the winter wheat planting season.
(With inputs from agencies)