In Pakistan’s second-largest city, Lahore, air pollution has reached new record levels. The regional government has implemented emergency measures to protect the population from smog, including school closures.
For days, a blanket of smog has enveloped the Pakistani city of Lahore. On Saturday, a pollutant level there reached an unprecedented record. The Air Quality Index, which measures a range of pollutants, soared to a peak of 1,067. “We have never reached the 1,000 mark before,” said environmental protection officer Jahangir Anwar to the AFP news agency.
The gray veil over the city consists of a mixture of fog and pollutants caused by poor quality diesel emissions, smoke from seasonal agricultural burning, and winter cooling. Smog is particularly pronounced in winter when cold, denser air traps emissions from low-quality fuels on the ground.
Due to the air pollution, the regional government took emergency measures: it announced that the city’s elementary schools would be closed for a week. This is to spare millions of children from the daily walk through the smog. Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb advised parents to ensure that their children wear masks.
Citizens are advised to stay in their homes, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid non-essential travel, according to the government. Hospitals have been equipped with meters to measure smog levels.
By increasing remote work, pollution from vehicles is also expected to decrease. Motorized tricycles, known as rickshaws, have been banned, and construction work has been halted in certain areas. Aurangzeb announced that factories and construction sites that do not comply with pollution regulations could be closed.
Aurangzeb described the situation as “unexpected” and blamed the worsening air quality on winds carrying pollutants from neighboring India. India’s capital, Delhi, also struggles with smog, especially in the cooler months.
Additional Information:
In recent years, air pollution has become a significant issue in many cities around the world, including Lahore. The impact of air pollution on public health, the environment, and the economy cannot be overstated. It is crucial for governments to take proactive measures to reduce emissions and protect their citizens from the harmful effects of pollution.
Furthermore, the closure of schools due to smog highlights the urgent need for long-term solutions to address air quality issues. Investing in cleaner energy sources, promoting public transportation, and implementing stricter regulations on emissions can help mitigate the impact of air pollution on communities. It is essential for individuals to also take steps to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier environment for future generations.
