Lahore once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities on Wednesday. Toxic smog and thick fog covered major parts of Punjab. According to an international monitoring website, the city recorded a dangerous 327 AQI. The ranking placed Lahore at the top of the global pollution index. Residents reported breathing difficulties throughout the day.
Karachi followed closely with an AQI of 282. Data from the Punjab Environment Department painted an even darker picture. Kasur recorded the highest pollution level in the province at 348 AQI. Gujranwala reached 341 AQI, while Sheikhupura stood at 278 AQI. Officials warned that these levels fall in the hazardous category.
Health experts issued strong warnings for vulnerable groups. They said the poor air quality poses serious risks to children and elderly citizens. People with asthma or respiratory diseases face even higher danger. Residents were advised to stay indoors as much as possible. They were also urged to wear face masks outdoors.
Meanwhile, dense fog worsened the situation and reduced visibility in several areas. Road travel suffered major disruption across Punjab. Motorway M-5 was closed from Multan Shershah Interchange to Zahir Pir. Sections of Motorway M-1 from Peshawar to Burhan were also shut. Officials said the closures were necessary to prevent accidents.
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A Motorway Police spokesperson said visibility dropped to extremely dangerous levels. He confirmed that all traffic was suspended on affected routes. He advised citizens to use fog lights and drive slowly. Motorists were reminded to keep a safe distance from other vehicles. The spokesperson urged travelers to avoid unnecessary road trips.
Authorities also suggested daytime travel for safer movement. They said the best travel window during fog is between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Drivers were told to delay trips during early-morning and nighttime fog. Officials said these hours pose the highest risk on highways. They stressed that safety must remain the top priority.
Government officials defended the closures as precautionary steps. They said the aim was to protect lives and property. Motorists were asked to remain patient until conditions improve. Authorities promised continuous monitoring of smog and fog levels. They also urged the public to follow all official travel advisories.