Lahore has once again earned the unfortunate title of the most polluted city in the world, with air pollution levels continuing to soar. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) on Saturday reached a hazardous 665, signaling a severe health risk. Several areas reported alarming AQI levels, including Syed Maratib Ali Road (1165), Valencia Town (908), CERB Office (906), Adda Plot (902), Johar Town (902), and MM Alam Road (730).
The maximum temperature in the city was recorded at 17°C, with a forecasted high of 18°C and a low of 9°C. Humidity stood at 71%, and winds were blowing at 3 km/h. The provincial environment department has predicted rain starting January 6, which is expected to improve air quality in various cities across the province.
In response to the ongoing pollution, the Department of Environmental Protection highlighted its efforts to combat smog and air pollution over the past 10 months. Strict actions have been taken against environmental law violators. Inspections have been conducted at 11,000 brick kilns across Punjab, resulting in 11,153 notices issued, 1,191 kilns demolished, 1,335 sealed, and 1,832 legal cases filed. Additionally, 484 factories were sealed for non-compliance with environmental regulations, 174 cases were filed, and fines totaling Rs 46 million were imposed.
Efforts to reduce fugitive dust included inspections at 4,588 sites, the issuance of 688 notices, and the sealing of 46 sites. Authorities also fined 77,166 vehicles emitting excessive smoke, generating Rs 14 million in penalties. Waste burning led to 10,465 fines, 1,040 cases, and Rs 23 million in fines. Moreover, authorities confiscated 1,541 kg of plastic bags to ensure compliance with environmental rules.
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the environment, emphasizing that the fight against smog and pollution would continue without leniency. She stressed that providing a clean and healthy environment remains a top priority for the government.
While Lahore’s AQI is recorded at 221 around 11 AM, Karachi, with an AQI of 270, ranks as the second most polluted city in the world, according to the Air Quality Index, which indicates extremely harmful air quality.
As of December 2024, Lahore’s air quality remains heavily polluted, with the average AQI consistently above the 300 mark. The city now ranks third in the world for pollution, with an average AQI of 329, following Dhaka (435) and Delhi (386). Health experts recommend that residents wear masks when going outside due to the hazardous air quality.
