Copyright pakobserver
Kasur leads the list of the most polluted cities in Punjab with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 321 (very unhealthy). According to the data shared by the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Thursday, Faisalabad ranked second with an AQI of 314 (very unhealthy), followed by Lahore with an AQI of 304 (very unhealthy). The air quality in fourth to ninth-ranked cities is unhealthy, while it is unhealthy for sensitive groups in the tenth-ranked city. Sheikhupura is ranked in fourth place with an AQI of 286 (unhealthy), closely followed by Hafizabad and Khanewal with an AQI of 284 and 236, respectively (unhealthy). Dera Ghazi Khan is ranked in seventh place with an AQI of 229 (unhealthy), followed by Sargodha with an AQI of 214 (unhealthy). Gujranwala is ranked ninth with an AQI of 206 (unhealthy), while Narowal is in tenth place with an AQI of 191 (unhealthy for sensitive groups). According to the EPA, Punjab, Lahore, and most districts in Punjab are reeling under toxic smog for around two weeks due to higher concentrations of PM2.5 in the atmosphere. The district administrations have been directed to take measures for controlling smog, as this situation will likely persist due to stable atmospheric conditions and a lack of rain. The air quality is deteriorating due to emissions from moving and stationary sources and stable atmospheric conditions. Health professionals have advised the public to take all possible measures to avoid smog-related health hazards. They have advised extra care for children, elderly people and those having a history of respiratory problems.
