Lahore experienced alarming air pollution on Saturday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) briefly peaking at an astonishing 1,067, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit by 71.1 times. Despite a “green lockdown” aimed at reducing pollution, the city faced the highest air pollution levels globally that morning, primarily due to dangerous PM2.5 particles reaching 610 micrograms per cubic meter.
Environment officials contend that the alarming AQI figures were inflated due to a temporary spike, urging that the more relevant 24-hour average was 336. The air quality began to improve later in the day, with readings around 290 to 201, depending on the neighbourhood.
Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb acknowledged the crisis, attributing the severe pollution largely to crop burning in Indian states, with winds reportedly carrying the smoke into Pakistan. She referenced NASA’s satellite data supporting these claims. When wind patterns shifted, the air quality reportedly improved.
In response to the smog situation, the Punjab government has implemented various measures, including a crackdown on illegal construction and emissions from vehicles. Almost 1,000 arrests have been made as part of this effort, with fines issued for high smoke emissions and the impounding of nearly 153,000 substandard vehicles.
The persistent smog is particularly severe during winter, trapping emissions from low-quality fuels and agricultural burning. This has prompted further restrictions, including bans on polluting vehicles and modified work arrangements for government offices and private companies.
Residents are expressing their anxiety as they navigate poor air quality, with mothers like Lilly Mirza voicing concern about the health impacts on families. Citizens like painter Rehmat feel helpless, relying on masks as they continue working in the toxic environment.
