Lahore Becomes World’s Second Most Polluted City as Smog Intensifies

Lahore: The air quality in Punjab’s provincial capital has deteriorated to alarming levels, placing Lahore as the world’s second most polluted city, according to recent air quality index (AQI) rankings.

Reports indicate that Lahore ranked first just a day earlier, while India’s New Delhi has now taken the top spot. Environmental authorities have warned that pollution levels in Lahore are rising due to winds blowing from the east, worsening smog conditions, particularly during the evening hours.

The Environment Department has urged citizens to stay indoors unless necessary, wear protective masks, use air purifiers, keep windows closed, and avoid outdoor exercise to minimize health risks.

Read More : Anti-Smog Guns Deployed in Lahore to Tackle Pollution

Experts have warned that exposure to smog can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, coughing, and skin diseases.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has launched a grand anti-smog operation under the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Nine departments have been mobilized, while Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb stated that brick kilns are being monitored using drone cameras and a live reporting system has been activated.

The operation includes the use of anti-smog guns, air quality monitors, and special machinery. For the first time in Punjab’s history, actions are being taken using AQI forecasting systems with immediate responses to identified hotspots.

Additionally, the government has restricted construction activities, banned wood and coal-fired hotels, and limited the movement of heavy vehicles such as trucks to reduce emissions.

Read More : Smog clean tower installed in Lahore to combat air pollution

In a significant step towards tackling the growing issue of air pollution, a Smog Clean Tower is being installed in Lahore. The tower, designed by the Environmental Protection Department, is being set up in the Mahmood Booti area, which has been identified as one of the city’s most polluted locations.

The installation and calibration process of the tower is underway, and officials expect it to be fully operational by December 21. The tower is designed to filter toxic particles from the air, which is expected to help significantly reduce pollution in the city.