LAHORE, (TDI): Lahore continued to grapple with hazardous air quality levels, earning the unfortunate title of the most polluted city in the world, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 708.
The city’s AQI varied significantly throughout the day, with a low of 246 recorded between 4 PM and 5 PM—still categorized as very unhealthy.
The peak AQI of 708 was noted at 11 PM. The PM2.5 concentration was a staggering 431 µg/m³, which is 86.2 times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual air quality guideline.
Lahore topped global pollution rankings, followed by New Delhi, which reported an AQI of 232 at 11 PM, peaking at 271 earlier at 6 AM.
Specific locations in Lahore reported alarming AQI levels, such as the CERP office in Gulberg at 953, followed by 810 at Pakistan Engineering Services Ltd, and 784 on Syed Maratab Ali Road.
Experts are disputing government data on the primary sources of smog, which include vehicle emissions and stubble burning.
They argue that smog can be observed around Lahore even in June, raising questions about the true causes of air pollution during summer months.
They emphasize the need for accurate data and public education regarding the adverse health impacts of smog.
Raja Jahangir Anwar, secretary of the Environment Protection and Culture Change Department (EPCCD), acknowledged various contributors to the smog, such as vehicular emissions, factory discharges, and brick kiln operations.
He criticized the reliance on private and low-cost sensors for AQI data, claiming it lacks authenticity.
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Addressing inquiries about smog causes, Anwar pointed out the lack of comprehensive scientific research in Pakistan.
Three non-scientific studies conducted by various organizations provided conflicting assessments of vehicle contributions to smog—ranging from 40% to 80%. He noted the presence of 4.5 million motorcycles, 1.3 million cars and trucks, and numerous factories and brick kilns operating in and around the city, along with stubble burning in nearby areas.
Anwar also mentioned that the government currently operates three functional air quality monitors and plans to install eight more by November 10, with the total expected to reach 16, including mobile units. A central control room has been established to release daily air quality reports.
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He noted that air quality tends to deteriorate from 11 PM to 5 AM, largely due to heavy vehicles transporting construction materials at night.
Ongoing urban development and wind patterns from eastern Punjab in India also contribute to the smog issue.
In response to the alarming pollution levels, the Punjab government has formed an 11-member committee tasked with improving the credibility of AQI reporting.
This committee includes representatives from various environmental and educational institutions.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has issued an emergency alert for Lahore residents amid rising smog levels, urging the implementation of safety measures. Citizens are advised to wear masks and keep windows closed to minimize exposure.
She particularly urged vulnerable groups, such as children and those with pre-existing health conditions, to stay indoors.
The government plans to seize smoke-emitting vehicles and enforce regulations on brick kilns while taking action against farmers who engage in stubble burning.