Diwali smog has entered Lahore, pushing the air quality of the city to very unhealthy levels.
Lahore’s air quality was recorded at almost 270 AQI, during Diwali days which is extremely dangerous for October since the air quality gets this bad in November.
Usually, there is a ban on fireworks in India, however, this time the Supreme Court of India relaxed the ban and allowed the use of so-called “green crackers” for a maximum of three hours each on Sunday and Monday.
Because of this, Delhi has brought smog early to the region.
According to some reports, due to fireworks and celebrations, the air quality in India’s capital climbed above 400, a level considered “severe” and dangerous to breathe.
India’s other major cities, including Mumbai and Kolkata, also experienced worsening air quality because of Diwali celebrations.
As of now 10:00 pm on Tuesday, the air quality has reached 233.
To control smog, Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz has ordered to stop large-scale infrastructure and construction activity across Punjab.
Moreover, Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb launched anti-smog guns.
Anti-smog guns have been made functional at several key locations, including Allama Iqbal Town, Multan Road, Karim Block, Ravi Pul, Shahdara Flyover, Thokar Niaz Baig, Upper Mall, and GT Road.
In 2024, IQAir recorded Lahore’s pollution peaking at a hazardous AQI of 1,110 on November 14.
It is pertinent to mention that this winter smog poses severe health risks to residents, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory illnesses.
