Smog Intensifies in Lahore as Air Quality Nears Hazardous Levels

LAHORE: The provincial capital continues to reel under **severe smog**, with **air quality approaching hazardous levels**, according to the latest data from the **Smog Monitoring and Early Warning System**.

Authorities warned that by **noon today**, Lahore’s **Air Quality Index (AQI)** could reach **185**, a level considered **harmful to human health**. The **Punjab Environment Department** attributed the worsening conditions to **polluted easterly winds** drifting in from **India**, where increased emissions during **Diwali celebrations** are expected to cause a **temporary spike in air pollution**.

The **Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)** confirmed that it is **continuously monitoring** Lahore’s air quality, while weather forecasts suggest **no likelihood of rain**, reducing the chances of any natural cleansing of pollutants.

According to the **Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD)**, the city’s **maximum temperature** may rise to **32°C**, with **wind speeds around 6 km/h**, fluctuating slightly throughout the day. Experts noted that **low wind speeds, atmospheric pressure changes, and temperature variations** are the primary causes behind the **increased AQI**, with **temporary pollution pockets** recorded in certain parts of the city.

Officials and environmental experts have urged residents to **report any unusual emissions or smoke** immediately by calling **1373**, emphasizing that the **EPA is fully implementing the Anti-Smog Action Plan** to mitigate the crisis.