Lahore is grappling with a severe air quality crisis, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels, making it the second most polluted city in the world after New Delhi.
The persistent smog, exacerbated by illegal stubble burning, low-grade diesel emissions, and trapped dust due to cold weather, has led to significant health concerns and disruptions in daily life.
Authorities have declared a health emergency in Lahore and Multan, with schools shifting to online classes and a ban imposed on construction activities in the worst-hit areas.
The smog has caused over 75,000 people across Punjab to seek medical help for respiratory problems, with Lahore reporting the highest number of cases. The Punjab government has implemented a 10-day ban on construction and imposed restrictions on business operations, including limiting restaurants to takeaway services after 4 PM.
The Lahore High Court has ordered the shutdown of commercial activities by 10 PM to combat smog, affecting shops, wedding halls, and restaurants.
The smog has also disrupted flight and train operations, with over 20 flights delayed at Lahore Airport. The government has urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel, use fog lights, and adhere to speed limits to ensure safety during foggy hours. Senior officials, including Punjab’s Minister for Information Marriyum Aurangzeb, have emphasized the importance of difficult decisions to protect lives, including the introduction of e-buses by June as part of a 10-year plan to combat smog.
The situation remains dire, with the AQI in Lahore reaching 485, posing serious health risks to residents.
The government has intensified enforcement measures, sealing shops violating standard operating procedures, challaning smoke-emitting vehicles, and detaining polluting vehicles at police stations.
The ongoing air quality crisis highlights the urgent need for collective action and stricter regulations to address pollution and protect public health in Lahore and other affected areas in Punjab.
