LAHORE: Lahore is grappling with hazardous air quality, earning the grim title of the most polluted city in the world, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 708.
The city’s AQI fluctuated throughout the day, dipping to a low of 246 between 4 PM and 5 PM, which is still considered very unhealthy. The peak AQI of 708 was recorded at 11 PM. The PM2.5 concentration reached a staggering 431 µg/m³, a shocking 86.2 times above the World Health Organization’s annual air quality guidelines.
Following Lahore, New Delhi reported an AQI of 232 at 11 PM, peaking at 271 earlier in the day.
Specific locations in Lahore reported alarming AQI levels, including the CERP office in Gulberg at 953, 810 at Pakistan Engineering Services Ltd, and 784 on Syed Maratab Ali Road.
Experts are questioning government data on the main contributors to smog, such as vehicle emissions and stubble burning. They argue that smog is observable around Lahore even in June, raising concerns about the true causes of summer air pollution. There is a strong call for accurate data and public education on the health impacts of smog.
Raja Jahangir Anwar, secretary of the Environment Protection and Culture Change Department (EPCCD), acknowledged multiple contributors to the smog issue, including vehicle emissions, factory discharges, and brick kiln operations. He criticized the reliance on private, low-cost sensors for AQI data, claiming they lack reliability.
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In addressing the causes of smog, Anwar highlighted the absence of comprehensive scientific research in Pakistan. Three non-scientific studies conducted by various organizations have provided conflicting estimates regarding vehicle contributions to smog, ranging from 40% to 80%. He pointed out that Lahore is home to 4.5 million motorcycles, 1.3 million cars and trucks, numerous factories, and brick kilns, along with stubble burning in surrounding areas.
Anwar mentioned that the government currently operates three air quality monitors, with plans to install eight more by November 10, bringing the total to 16, including mobile units. A central control room has also been set up to provide daily air quality reports.
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He noted that air quality typically worsens from 11 PM to 5 AM, primarily due to heavy vehicles transporting construction materials at night. Ongoing urban development and wind patterns from eastern Punjab in India also exacerbate the smog issue.
In response to the severe pollution levels, the Punjab government has established an 11-member committee to enhance 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 in light of rising smog levels, urging the implementation of safety measures. Citizens are advised to wear masks and keep windows closed to reduce exposure. She particularly urged vulnerable groups, such as children and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, to remain indoors. The government also plans to seize smoke-emitting vehicles and enforce regulations on brick kilns while taking action against farmers who engage in stubble burning.
