Punjab Sees Drop in Night Temperatures as Air Quality Worsens

Lahore: Weather changes in Punjab have led to a decline in nighttime temperatures, but air quality levels across several cities have begun to deteriorate.

According to official data, Lahore recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of **152**, Kasur **144**, Sialkot **154**, and Gujranwala **160**. In other cities, Faisalabad stood at **156**, Multan **139**, Bahawalpur **115**, Rawalpindi **114**, while Murree recorded a relatively cleaner **48**.

For the first time in Punjab’s history, an advanced forecasting and climate monitoring system has issued smog alerts and assessments, confirming that the situation remains under control for now. The system will provide early warnings throughout the winter and smog season.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed strict implementation of anti-smog measures, building on last year’s efforts. Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has been assigned to supervise the province-wide smog prevention operation. Continuous monitoring of air quality is underway.

While smog from India’s stubble burning has not yet reached Pakistan, crop residue burning in northern Indian Punjab is generating pollution, which is expected to drift into Pakistan in the coming month due to changing wind patterns.

In Punjab, authorities have activated environmental protection teams and district administrations. Actions include bans on open garbage burning, covering debris at construction sites, ensuring sealed waste bins, and enforcing strict penalties against polluters. Water sprinkling and cleanliness drives are also being carried out, with police directed to assist in the anti-smog operation.

The province has deployed **43 modern air quality monitoring devices** for real-time data collection. Officials claim that advanced technology, modern agricultural machinery, and dedicated anti-pollution forces are helping Punjab take the lead in environmental protection across Pakistan.

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