The current rates of Lahore AQI are at the very unhealthy level exceeding 202 US-AQI because of the smoke of Indian Diwali fireworks floating into Pakistan. The environmental officials affirmed that cross-border winds carry heavy particulate matter in Indian states that aggravate smog conditions in Punjab and especially in Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan and Sahiwal.
The global monitoring platforms have indicated that the AQI of New Delhi was 821 making it the worst polluter of air quality in the world with Lahore coming in second with 266 AQI, which portrays that the air quality was not safe to human health. The Punjab Meteorological Department said that the winds in Dharamshala, Ludhiana and Haryana are carrying the pollutants across the border at low velocities of 3-6 km/h and the smog is being trapped close to the ground level.
Lahore AQI Forecast and Government Response
It is predicted that the Lahore AQI will range between 210 and 230 during the day. Punjab government has initiated anti-smog programs such as spraying water, cleaning the roads and use of anti-smog guns at the risky areas. The real-time air tracking monitor of the province now has the Smog Monitoring and Control Center.
The government has apprehended more than 80 offenders who have been caught burning wastes and emitting smoke. It has been recommended to citizens to wear masks, not to engage in unnecessary movements outside, and follow updates on Lahore AQI in the official sources.
Specialists express concerns that with long term exposure to the present AQI levels in Lahore, respiratory and cardiovascular risks may occur. People are encouraged to remain indoors at the most critical smog times and close the windows.