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Lahore, the capital of Pakistan's Punjab province, has been ranked the most polluted city in the world. The city's air quality index (AQI) hit a hazardous 412 at 8:30am on Saturday, according to data from the air quality monitoring platform IQAir. The PM2.5 levels were found to be 56.2 units higher than the World Health Organization's annual guideline value. The toxic smog has left residents of Lahore suffering from throat irritation, itchy eyes, and breathing difficulties. Experts have advised people to wear face masks and limit outdoor activities. The pollution levels are particularly alarming in some neighborhoods, with Shalimar recording an AQI of 690, Shadman at 611, and Syed Maratib Ali Road at 609. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that the smog is likely to continue over eastern Punjab for a few more days. Cooler temperatures, low-speed winds, and emissions from vehicles and factories are contributing to the pollution. The weather department also blamed local emissions and pollutants from India, carried by Diwali fireworks and low-speed winds. The provincial government in Punjab has launched several measures to tackle the growing air pollution. These include banning plastic bags, relocating brick kilns, and setting up a 'smog war room.' Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said they are following a comprehensive plan to combat the crisis. The government has also deployed anti-smog guns and water sprinkling tankers on key roads in Lahore. So far, Lahore police have arrested 83 people in their anti-smog crackdown. This includes those responsible for emissions from factories and vehicles, as well as the burning of tires and waste. The government has also launched a public awareness campaign urging citizens to participate in efforts to eliminate pollution sources.
