Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has surged to around 200, falling into the “unhealthy” category, as the concentration of PM2.5 particles in the city’s air was reported to be 24.2 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended limit.
While the AQI varied across different parts of the city, many areas recorded levels significantly higher than the city’s average, indicating widespread air pollution.
In comparison, last year on November 11, Lahore’s AQI had spiked to a hazardous level of 2,545. This morning, at 5 am, the AQI stood at approximately 350, still a concerning level for residents’ health.
Experts have continued to raise alarms about the health risks associated with such pollution levels, advising vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to take precautions.
The Lahore district administration has continued its decisive actions against smog, inspecting industrial units, enforcing business closure timings, and cracking down on smoke-emitting vehicles as part of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s “Smog-Free Lahore” vision. Additional Deputy Commissioner (Finance) Muddasir Nawaz, alongside relevant officers, conducted inspections of factories across the city, issuing strict warnings to more than 15 units for violating environmental regulations.
As part of the ongoing efforts, markets are being closed at 10 p.m., and restaurants at 11 p.m. in accordance with government directives. Additionally, “Mist Queen” vehicles are being deployed near bus terminals and congestion-prone areas to combat smog formation. Officials from the Environment Department, the Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL), and the district administration are working together on operations aimed at reducing pollution and improving air quality.
Citizens have been encouraged to report smog-related issues through the Green Punjab App or the helpline 1373. The administration is also addressing dust levels by ensuring road repairs and patchwork. Moreover, smoke-emitting vehicles will be removed from the roads immediately, with vehicle owners urged to obtain fitness certificates without delay.
Deputy Commissioner Lahore, Syed Musa Raza, reiterated that a zero-tolerance policy is being enforced against environmental violators. He stressed that protecting public health is the government’s top priority and called on citizens to adopt eco-friendly practices while supporting the coordinated departmental efforts to improve Lahore’s air quality.
Lahore experienced dry weather on Tuesday, and similar conditions are expected to persist on Wednesday. According to MET officials, continental air is dominating most parts of the country, leading to dry conditions across the region.
The weather department forecast cold to very cold temperatures in the upper areas during the night and early morning hours. Additionally, smog and patches of shallow fog may form during the morning and night in certain plain areas of Punjab, further reducing visibility.
Residents are advised to stay cautious, particularly during the early hours, when fog could affect travel conditions.