Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city, experienced its highest-ever Air Quality Index (AQI) reading, soaring to a record 1900 on Saturday, raising severe health concerns for residents. This level of pollution led authorities to implement emergency measures to protect public health.
Lahore Tops List of World’s Most Polluted Cities
According to provincial data and Swiss environmental group IQAir, Lahore was reported as the most polluted city globally on Sunday. The record AQI reading was recorded near the Pakistan-India border, highlighting the severity of the air quality crisis.
Emergency Response: Schools Closed, Work-from-Home Initiatives
In response to the dangerously high pollution, the Lahore administration enforced a series of measures to curb the impact. Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced that primary schools across various cities would close for a week. Additionally, parents are encouraged to ensure children wear protective masks. “Primary schools are shut for the week,” Aurangzeb said, noting the dense smog blanketing Lahore.
To reduce vehicular pollution, the government also ordered that 50% of office staff work from home.
Health and Safety Advisories for Residents
Authorities issued advisories urging residents to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and limit travel to essential trips only. Hospitals were equipped with smog counters and instructed to be ready for emergency situations, according to Reuters.
Ban on Rickshaws and Halted Construction to Combat Pollution
As a further step to lower pollution, the government imposed restrictions on three-wheeled rickshaws and suspended construction in select areas. Factories and sites failing to meet pollution control measures were warned of potential closures.
Pakistan Blames India for Lahore’s Severe Pollution Levels
Aurangzeb attributed Lahore’s pollution partly to airborne pollutants from neighboring India, describing the situation as “unexpected.” She stressed that cooperation with India is crucial to tackle the cross-border pollution crisis. “This cannot be solved without talks with India,” she stated, mentioning plans for discussions through Pakistan’s foreign ministry.
Winter Aggravates Smog Levels in Lahore
Lahore’s pollution crisis, much like that of Delhi in India, is intensified during winter as temperature inversion traps pollution closer to the ground, exacerbating smog conditions in the city.