LAHORE: Smog levels in Lahore, the cultural capital of Pakistan, have reached alarming levels, making it the most polluted city in the world.
Environmental monitoring experts reported that the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 304, indicating hazardous conditions far beyond the danger limit.
The toxic air poses serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory illnesses.
The pollution is not confined to Lahore alone. Delhi and Faisalabad also recorded high AQI readings of 221, showing the regional scale of the problem.
Experts say an AQI above 300 is considered extremely dangerous and can lead to a surge in respiratory and heart diseases. They attribute the worsening air quality to vehicle emissions, stubble burning, and industrial activities factors that intensify during the winter season.
With these sources of pollution still active, specialists warn that the smog could worsen in the coming days. Citizens have been advised to limit outdoor activities and wear masks when outside.
However, despite a government ban on garbage burning, violations of standard operating procedures (SOPs) continue across the city of Lahore.
Meanwhile, the Environment Protection Department (EPD) has stepped up its anti-smog operations. The department, along with the Lahore district administration and Transport Department, is cracking down on smoke-emitting vehicles and industries violating environmental laws.
