The smog crisis gripping Punjab deepened on Saturday, affecting Lahore and spreading to other cities, disrupting transportation and prompting lockdown-like restrictions. Lahore, ranked as the world’s most polluted city, faces worsening visibility, impacting daily life, grounding trains, and closing motorways.
Multan reported an alarming AQI of 2135, followed by other cities, with easterly winds from India exacerbating pollution levels. Meteorologists expect the smog to persist for two to three days, though a wind shift may offer slight relief.
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In response, the Punjab government has launched anti-smog operations, closing polluting factories, demolishing non-compliant brick kilns, and sealing smoke-emitting vehicles. Authorities also closed parks and recreational sites, advising citizens to wear masks and avoid unnecessary travel.
Motorway police imposed restrictions, urging safe driving and discouraging travel at night due to low visibility. Plans for artificial rain to alleviate smog have been delayed due to insufficient cloud cover.
A report by Punjab’s Urban Unit revealed the transportation sector as the main pollution contributor (83.15%), calling for stricter measures and the adoption of eco-friendly vehicles.
