LAHORE: Major cities of Punjab including provincial capital Lahore were covered in dense smog on Saturday disrupting the routine life of citizens.
According to reports, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore was recorded at 328. However, the worst air quality was recorded in Walton area 463 at followed by Upper Mall 434, Model Town 434, Anarkali 398, Bahria Orchard 376 and Canal Road at 352.
Authorities have decided to establish Anti-smog Task Force. Five special squads will be formed which will include officials from police, environment inspector, WASA, MCL and industries. Commissioner Lahore said every squad will conduct inspection of 12 industrial units in one day and brick kilns that have been shifted to zigzag technology will also be re-evaluated.
Lahore has been declared the most polluted city globally, according to the Air Quality Index data released on Thursday. The AQI crossed 700 as residents panicked over the weather conditions. A level of 746 was recorded in Model Town on Thursday while on Wednesday it was recorded 532.
Experts say such increased levels pose serious health issues to the citizens. They have urged the general public especially children and elderly people to take precautions, use face masks and remain indoors to avoid health complications due to smog.
The issue of pollution has also landed in courts as Lahore High Court (LHC) judge Justice Shahid Karim heard an environmental pollution case on Friday.
The judge expressed regreat that no measures have been taken by the concerned authorities to curb smog and officials were sending reports from their offices. “Now I will visit myself to know the whole matter because our nation is well aware of everything,” he remarked.
The court has appointed a judicial assistant to implement the commission report on smog, environmental pollution and water pollution. The court adjourned the hearing till November 15.
