Lahore, renowned for its cultural heritage and intellectual pursuits, finds itself in the spotlight for an unfortunate reason – smog.
Persistently, year after year, Lahore claims the unenviable title of the most polluted city globally. This dubious distinction is not a new one, and, much like India’s New Delhi, Lahore has become synonymous with pollution-induced smog.
Despite ambitious pledges to combat smog, the reality on the ground tells a different story, as Lahore once again grapples with the pervasive issue, maintaining its status as the most polluted city globally for an alarming number of instances.
It is crucial to note that an air quality index around 50 is considered safe, while an index fluctuating between 100-150 poses risks, especially for individuals with heart complications and children. When the air quality index surpasses 300, it is deemed immensely hazardous for the general population.
In Lahore, an air quality index exceeding 400 has unfortunately become the new normal. Regrettably, prospects of improvement seem distant, and the reasons behind this predicament are apparent.
The inadequate public transport system in Lahore contributes to a rapid increase in the number of cars and motorbikes. Furthermore, the city’s open spaces diminish steadily as unchecked construction projects persist, disregarding potential environmental hazards. The situation underscores the urgent need for holistic measures to address the root causes of Lahore’s persistent smog crisis.
