LAHORE: Punjab is once again facing an intense wave of air pollution, with the provincial capital, Lahore, experiencing a severe and worsening smog crisis. The onset of winter, rising humidity, industrial emissions, traffic smoke, and the use of substandard fuel have collectively deteriorated the air quality to levels that are now directly affecting public health.
According to the latest data released by an international environmental monitoring platform, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) climbed to 331 today—a level categorized as “hazardous.” Such high pollution levels pose serious risks to respiratory health, cardiovascular health, ocular irritation, asthma sufferers, and even neurological well-being.
Other major cities across Punjab are also facing alarming levels of pollution. Kasur recorded an AQI of 327, indicating that the air is no longer healthy for normal breathing. Narowal’s index reached 313, while particulate matter levels in Sheikhupura were reported at 292—all falling under globally recognized “highly polluted” categories.
Every day life in these areas has been severely disrupted, while individuals with lung diseases, allergies and respiratory issues are experiencing increased difficulty due to worsening smog conditions.
Globally, Lahore has now ranked among the world’s top six most polluted cities, while Karachi has been placed 14th due to its deteriorating air quality.
Environmental experts warn that if immediate and coordinated measures are not taken, the situation may worsen further in the coming weeks as cold weather intensifies and smog settles closer to the ground. Strict checks on industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, crop residue burning, and promotion of cleaner fuels have been declared essential.
Visibility issues have also disrupted intercity travel. Due to dense smog, motorway authorities have closed the M1 from Peshawar Toll Plaza to Burhan to ensure commuter safety. The traffic police have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel under the current hazardous conditions.
