LAHORE: Air pollution remains dangerously high across Punjab, including the provincial capital, Lahore. According to IQAir, an environmental monitoring website, Lahore once again ranked as the most polluted city today, with its overall Air Quality Index recorded at 331.
Other cities in Punjab are also facing hazardous air conditions. In Kasur, the AQI reached 327, while Narowal recorded a level of 313. In Sheikhupura, particulate matter was measured at 292, highlighting the widespread environmental concern.
The global environmental website further reports that, among major cities worldwide, Lahore stands at sixth place for poor air quality, while Karachi ranks 14th.
Also Read: AQI Crosses Safe Limits in Islamabad and Rawalpindi
Experts warn that the main causes of smog include industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, crop residue burning, and changing weather patterns. They caution that if immediate measures are not taken, the current pollution levels could lead to a sharp rise in respiratory, cardiac and eye-related illnesses.
Health specialists say worsening pollution has become a full-scale public health crisis. They advise citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, wear masks, and refrain from outdoor exercise or physical activities in the early morning to reduce the risk of respiratory and heart diseases.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has already issued an alert in view of the growing smog threat. According to PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia, the Meteorological Department has predicted increased smog from November through mid-December, urging the public to follow precautionary guidelines to stay safe.
