Lahore city’s average AQI stood at 224, placing air quality in very unhealthy category, with PM2.5 levels recorded at 29.8 times higher than the World Health Organisation’s annual guideline value, here on Sunday.
The most polluted areas included A Block, Model Town (778), Liberty (266), Allama Iqbal Town (254), Wahdat Road (232), Barki Road (214), Bedian Road (198), B Block, Phase 5, DHA (195), Cantonment (194) and Askari X (172).
Seven domestic and international flights were affected due to fog. According to airport sources, PIA flight 847 from Lahore to Dammam was delayed, while Air Sial flight 716 from Lahore to Jeddah was delayed until 3:30 am. Air Blue flight 472 from Lahore to Jeddah was delayed until 9 am. The flight was supposed to depart for Jeddah at 11 pm. Saudi Air flight 738 from Jeddah to Lahore will arrive after 12 pm. Likewise, PIA flight 748 from Medina to Lahore was delayed until 11 am, while Air Blue flight 406 from Karachi to Lahore was canceled.
Travelers urged to skip morning drives amid fog
The Motorway and Traffic Police have warned travelers of hazardous roads in hill stations, with morning fog and snowfall making conditions risky and advised exercising utmost caution if travel is necessary.
A spokesperson for the Motorway Police of Punjab, in a special message to the media, reported that dense fog has significantly reduced visibility in several cities across the province.
The reduced visibility is disrupting traffic flow on major motorways and national highways, prompting authorities to advise motorists to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines while traveling.
Meanwhile, foggy conditions have also impacted air travel in the region. Authorities confirmed that the schedules of seven domestic and international flights, both arrivals and departures, have been disrupted due to low visibility.
Travelers heading to northern areas have been advised to take extra precautions before embarking on their journeys. Traffic Police from local northern parts also urged everyone to check road and weather conditions and follow safety guidelines while traveling in fog and snowfall.
Authorities stressed that non-essential travel should be avoided until visibility improves and road conditions are safer, emphasizing the importance of vigilance to prevent accidents during adverse weather. When driving in snow or foggy mornings, reduce your speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and use low-beam headlights or fog lights.
Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, stay alert for slippery patches and only travel if necessary. Keeping emergency supplies, such as blankets, water and a fully charged phone, can help ensure safety in case of delays or accidents.