LAHORE: The problem of air pollution in Lahore has intensified ahead of winter, placing the city at the top of the global pollution charts.
According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), Lahore recorded a reading of 185 on Thursday, which falls under the “hazardous” category. This figure made Lahore the most polluted city in the world, surpassing Dhaka in Bangladesh and Jakarta in Indonesia.
Environmental experts have warned that the situation is likely to worsen during the winter season. Each year, smog blankets Lahore as colder weather traps pollutants closer to the ground, making breathing conditions more dangerous.
Medical professionals are already calling the current situation alarming. They say the city’s air quality is “deadly for breathing,” particularly for children, elderly citizens, and people with respiratory illnesses. Experts highlight that prolonged exposure to poor air quality can lead to asthma, bronchitis, heart disease, and reduced lung function.
The growing pollution crisis in Lahore has sparked calls for urgent action. Environmental experts stress that without strong preventive measures, the city may face a full-scale health emergency in the coming months.
They have urged authorities to act quickly by introducing strict controls on industrial emissions and vehicular smoke. They also recommend stronger enforcement against the burning of crop residue, which is a major contributor to smog in Lahore and surrounding areas.
Experts further suggest public awareness campaigns, improved urban planning, and investment in green technologies to address the root causes of pollution.
With Lahore once again topping global pollution rankings, citizens and officials alike are facing renewed pressure to take immediate steps. The coming winter will be a crucial test of how effectively the government can balance development with the urgent need for cleaner air.
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