Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city, has been grappling with an unprecedented air pollution crisis.
On Saturday, air quality data from IQAir revealed that the level of PM2.5 pollutants—a harmful particulate matter—soared to 610, which is 40 times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) acceptable threshold of 15 for a 24-hour period.
Additionally, the air quality index, which considers various pollutants, spiked to an alarming 1,067.
“We have never reached a level of 1,000,” said Jahangir Anwar, a senior official from Lahore’s environmental protection department, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
For several days, Lahore has been shrouded in a cloud of dense smog, a hazardous combination of fog and pollutants.
This crisis stems from a mix of low-grade diesel fumes, emissions from agricultural burning, and the effects of winter cooling, which traps pollutants at ground level.
In response, authorities have introduced a series of emergency measures to mitigate the disaster.
Emergency restrictions enforced in Lahore to combat smog and deadly PM2.5 pollutants.These include a ban on two-stroke engine tuk-tuks and restaurants operating barbecues without filters in four identified pollution “hot spots.”
Construction activities have been halted, and street vendors who use open fires must close by 8 pm.
To reduce vehicular emissions, government and private offices have mandated that half their employees work from home starting Monday.
Lahore’s smog crisis underscores the urgency of addressing air quality issues, especially during winter when cold, dense air exacerbates pollution levels.
The measures introduced provide a temporary respite, but the situation highlights the need for long-term solutions, including stricter fuel quality regulations, improved public transportation, and enhanced urban planning.
As Lahore struggles to breathe, the health of millions remains at risk, with experts warning that continued exposure to such high pollution levels could lead to severe respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Addressing this environmental emergency requires not only immediate action but sustained efforts to ensure cleaner air for all.