Air Pollution Grips Punjab, Lahore Among World’s Most Polluted Cities

Lahore : Most parts of Punjab remain under the grip of severe air pollution, with air quality in central Punjab reaching hazardous levels, according to environmental authorities.

As the weather changes, smog has intensified across the province. Lahore once again ranks among the top five most polluted cities in the world, data shows.

Read More : Air pollution causes 128,000 annual deaths in Pakistan

The Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded in various cities is as follows:

• Gujranwala: 562

• Kasur: 489

• Faisalabad: 436

• Raiwind: 408

• Lahore: PM level at 388

• Multan: 344

Health experts have urged citizens to wear masks and avoid outdoor activities, especially for children and the elderly.

The Punjab government has launched an anti-smog operation across the province. Anti-smog water guns are being used in highly polluted zones of Lahore and nearby areas.

Construction activities and wood or coal-based restaurants have been temporarily banned, while traffic police have restricted the movement of heavy trucks and cargo vehicles to curb emissions.

Federal Information Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has appealed to citizens to cooperate with government initiatives aimed at reducing pollution and protecting public health.

Read More : Lahore Ranks Third in Punjab’s Air Pollution Levels

LAHORE: Lahore remained the third most polluted city in Punjab on Saturday, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 247.

According to the latest data, Sheikhupura topped the list with an AQI of 285, followed by Kasur at 270. Within Lahore, the UET area recorded the highest pollution level in the city with an AQI of 373.

Punjab has historically faced severe air pollution during the winter months. Last year, smog and toxic air affected several cities, prompting authorities to take emergency measures to protect public health.

The smog in Lahore is primarily caused by low-quality diesel emissions, smoke from seasonal crop burning, and the trapping of pollutants due to cooler weather. During peak pollution periods, air quality in Lahore was reported to exceed 80 times the safe limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).