Punjab has seen a slight improvement in air quality, with Lahore dropping to the second spot on the global pollution index.
Despite this, the provincial capital remains heavily impacted by smog, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 294 on Sunday morning. Nationally, Multan ranked second with an AQI of 256, followed by Rawalpindi at 188 and Peshawar at 170.
Dense smog continues to disrupt visibility and travel across the province, prompting the closure of major motorways, including the M2 (Lahore to Kot Momin), M3 (Lahore to Darkhana), M4 (Pindi Bhattian to Multan), and M5 (Multan to Sukkur). Additionally, parts of the National Highway in areas such as Lahore, Manga Mandi, Pattoki, Renala Khurd, Okara, Sahiwal, Chichawatni, and Mian Channu were partially blocked, causing traffic delays.
Crackdown on Smog Violators Intensifies
To combat worsening air quality, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has ramped up its enforcement measures. In the last 24 hours, 49 cases were registered, 18 individuals arrested, and 641 offenders fined over Rs 1.2 million. Authorities also issued 151 warnings to violators.
Infractions included nine incidents of crop residue burning, 556 cases of smoke-emitting vehicles, three instances of industrial emissions, and 37 violations by brick kilns.
EPD Secretary Raja Jahangir Anwar emphasized the government’s firm stance against violators. “Strict action is being taken against those flouting anti-smog regulations, regardless of their influence. No one will be exempt,” he said.
Health Emergency Declared
With smog intensifying in Lahore and other cities, the Punjab government has declared a health emergency in Lahore and Multan until November 24. The move aims to mitigate health risks linked to prolonged smog exposure and curb pollution.
Former health minister Professor Javed Akram warned of smog's potential long-term health effects, including an increased risk of diseases like cancer. He stressed the need for immediate action to safeguard public health.
In Rawalpindi, local authorities have suspended classes in both government and private schools until November 24. Officials have pledged to enforce these orders strictly.
While the recent AQI drop provides a measure of relief, environmental experts highlight the need for ongoing efforts to address smog. Tackling key pollution sources such as smoke-emitting vehicles, industrial emissions, and crop residue burning remains crucial for achieving sustained improvements in air quality.
