Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural heart and capital of Punjab province, is finally seeing a slight reprieve from its persistent smog crisis. On Sunday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped to 247, shifting from the “hazardous” category to “very unhealthy.” While still alarming, this slight improvement brought a glimmer of hope for the city’s 14 million residents who have endured weeks of suffocating air pollution.
Lahore Among the World’s Most Polluted Cities
The smog gripping Lahore is no small matter. According to IQAir, a Swiss-based air quality monitoring organization, Lahore ranks as the world’s second most polluted city, with New Delhi leading the charts at a staggering AQI of 559.
The winter months worsen Lahore’s pollution due to illegal stubble burning, emissions from low-grade diesel fuel, and cold weather trapping dust and pollutants. Authorities also attribute part of the smog to cross-border pollution from neighboring India.
Impact on Daily Life and Health
The dense smog has disrupted lives across Lahore and other cities in Punjab. Transport operations, including flights and trains, have faced severe delays, with over 20 flights delayed at Lahore Airport due to poor visibility. Schools have shifted to online learning, and businesses are operating under restricted hours to curb emissions.
The health impact has been catastrophic. Over 75,000 people sought medical help in Punjab on Saturday alone due to respiratory issues caused by toxic air. Lahore accounted for the highest number of cases, including 5,353 patients with respiratory diseases, 359 with asthma, 171 with heart conditions, and 303 with conjunctivitis.
Emergency Measures to Combat Smog
In response to the crisis, the Punjab government declared a health emergency in Lahore and Multan. Measures to combat the smog include:
- A 10-day ban on construction activities.
- Restrictions on restaurants, allowing only takeaway services after 4 pm.
- Public advisories encouraging reduced travel, use of fog lights, and adherence to speed limits for safety during low visibility hours.
What Lies Ahead
While the slight improvement in Lahore’s AQI offers some relief, significant action is needed to address the root causes of the smog. Long-term solutions, including better waste management, stricter enforcement of environmental laws, and regional cooperation, are critical to preventing future crises.
This smog episode serves as a wake-up call for authorities and residents alike to prioritize sustainable practices and environmental reforms for a healthier future.