The smog and air pollution situation in Punjab remains concerning, with 32 out of the province’s 36 districts experiencing high to extremely severe levels of smog. The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has released an updated satellite-based assessment covering all 36 districts of Punjab on its website, www.space4climate.gov.pk.
According to SUPARCO’s report, satellite observations detected 499 fire incidents at various locations across Punjab during the past 24 hours, while 744 fire incidents were also recorded in transboundary areas during the same period. The report further revealed that the average Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) in Punjab was recorded at 1.52, indicating a significant presence of airborne pollutants in the atmosphere.
The highest concentrations of air pollutants were recorded in Muzaffargarh, Dera Ghazi Khan and Hafizabad. Several other districts, including Hafizabad, Jhang, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Muzaffargarh, Khanewal, Okara and Faisalabad, are also experiencing concerning smog conditions. Air pollution is adversely affecting visibility and overall air quality across the province.
Satellite Imagery: Only 5% of Punjab’s Area Remains Clear
According to SUPARCO’s satellite imagery, only 5% of Punjab’s total area remains clear, while 62% of the province is covered by fog, smog and smoke. The report indicates that 28% of the area is covered by fog or low-level clouds, while clouds cover the remaining 5%.
Smog Intensity Expected to Gradually Decline Over the Next Three Days
According to SUPARCO’s forecast, smog intensity across Punjab is expected to gradually decrease over the next three days. The report projects PM2.5 concentrations at 106 micrograms per cubic metre on 11 November, 86 micrograms per cubic metre on 12 November, and a further decline to 56 micrograms per cubic metre on 13 November.
However, the report cautions that meteorological conditions are expected to remain highly unfavourable for the dispersion of air pollutants over the next three days.
According to the assessment, the ventilation rate for the dispersion of air pollution in Punjab was recorded at 1,130 square metres per second today and is expected to increase to 1,431 square metres per second on 12 November. Despite this anticipated improvement, overall meteorological conditions are still expected to remain unfavourable for pollutant dispersion.
Meanwhile, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) concentrations across Punjab were recorded 12% below the seasonal average.
SUPARCO continues to monitor smog, air pollution and fire incidents across all 36 districts of Punjab through satellite technology and advanced observation systems. The latest assessments and forecasts are available on the Space4Climate website.
