Lahore Faces Severe Smog Crisis as Air Quality Index Hits 1,000

Lahore: Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has warned residents to stay indoors as Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to a staggering 1,000 due to polluted air entering the city from India. The worsening smog is attributed to the burning of crop residues in Indian territories, leading to an escalation in air pollution levels.
Aurangzeb stated that the intensity of smog is expected to persist for the next 48 hours. By 2 PM on Saturday, the AQI had improved to 199, yet Lahore remains ranked third on the list of the world’s most polluted cities, following Delhi in first place.
She highlighted that NASA has released aerial images showing the spread of smog over Lahore. The average air pollution level in the city was recorded at 157 yesterday, with the average over the past five days being around 180.
The situation has been exacerbated by smoke from the air mixing with local pollutants. Aurangzeb urged residents to wear masks and take precautions, especially those with respiratory, cardiac, or other health issues, including elderly individuals who should avoid outdoor activities altogether.