Indian Diwali Smoke Pushes Lahore AQI to Hazardous

Lahore,  Air quality in Lahore has deteriorated sharply after smoke from Diwali fireworks in India drifted into Pakistani airspace, triggering health concerns and fears of a severe smog crisis across Punjab.

Environmental experts issued warnings on Tuesday, highlighting that the toxic smoke from across the eastern border is contributing to the already hazardous air pollution levels in Lahore and surrounding cities.

Following Diwali celebrations, New Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 821 — the highest in the world — pushing the Indian capital into the “hazardous” category. In comparison, Lahore ranked second globally with an AQI of 268, a level deemed unsafe for human health.

Other major Indian cities also reported poor air quality, with Mumbai recording an AQI of 172 and Kolkata 170, placing them third and fourth on the list of the world’s most polluted cities.

According to environmental agencies, Lahore’s AQI is expected to fluctuate between 210 and 240 throughout Tuesday as winds from Indian regions like Dharamshala, Ludhiana, and Sri Ganganagar carry smoke into Pakistan. These air currents are forecasted to affect Lahore, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Burewala, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and Multan. Wind speeds are likely to remain low, between 3 to 6 km/h, potentially prolonging the pollution’s effects.

In response, the Punjab government has ramped up its anti-smog operations. Teams from the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), and the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) are conducting road washing and water sprinkling across high-risk zones. Anti-smog guns have also been deployed at critical locations.

Authorities have launched the province’s first Smog Monitoring and Control Center, equipped with advanced technology to provide real-time data and improve pollution response strategies.

Citizens have been strongly advised to wear face masks and limit outdoor activities during peak smog hours to minimize health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

Read More:Diwali celebrations: India pollutes the air, leading to increased smog in Pakistan.

Diwali celebrations in India have significantly impacted Pakistan’s air quality. Today, New Delhi’s Air Quality Index reached 348, and violations of the fireworks ban have led it to be declared the world’s most polluted city. Meanwhile, smog has also deepened over Lahore.

India’s “smog terrorism” continues to affect Pakistan. Indian citizens celebrated Diwali with extensive fireworks, disregarding all environmental regulations. Throughout the night, cities like New Delhi were illuminated with celebrations, paying little attention to the pollution caused by flammable materials. Firecrackers and sparklers were set off continuously throughout the night.