In response to the worsening smog situation, the Punjab government has announced special arrangements for Istisqaa, a prayer for rain, set to take place on Friday, November 15. This step is being led by the Auqaf and Religious Affairs Department, which will organize the prayer throughout the province, with a focus on seeking mercy for rainfall to help combat the region’s persistent smog.
Right now, Punjab is in dire need of rain, as it could significantly help reduce the adverse effects of smog, an official remarked. Cities like Lahore, home to around 15 million residents, have been grappling with some of the world’s highest pollution levels, recently ranking as the most polluted city globally. This toxic air crisis poses severe health risks, especially to children. UNICEF has already sounded an alarm for over 11 million children under five in the region, warning about the dangers of constant exposure to high pollution levels.
The primary causes of this relentless smog are crop burning, vehicle emissions, and coal-powered plants, according to environmental experts. In light of the crisis, the provincial government has closed down schools and intermediate colleges, implementing a 50% remote work policy for public and private offices in the worst-hit areas.
With hopes pinned on rain to provide relief, Friday’s Istisqaa prayer symbolizes both faith and a practical effort to improve air quality, addressing a problem that continues to disrupt everyday life and threaten public health across Punjab.
