Peshawar finds itself at the epicenter of a concerning smog crisis, standing out as the world’s most-polluted city with a staggering Air Quality Index (AQI) of 324.
Trailing closely behind is Lahore, securing the second spot globally with an AQI of 269. The air quality in some areas surrounding Lahore even reached an alarming 400.
The intensity of the pollution crisis is most severe over the Pakistan Engineering Services, where the AQI reached an alarming 403, followed closely by Brevzon with an AQI of 397. The Mall, a prominent area, faced an AQI of 388, while the US consulate in Lahore experienced a reading of 355.
As the smog tightens its grip, authorities are sounding the alarm, urging residents to take necessary precautions, including wearing masks and limiting outdoor activities, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The plummeting temperatures in Lahore, with a recorded minimum of 10 degrees Celsius, are adding to the challenge. Despite a five-kilometer-per-hour breeze, the air remains thick, with humidity registering at 77 percent.
Efforts are underway to address the root causes of air pollution, with authorities collaborating on strategies to mitigate the impact and improve air quality. The urgency of the situation calls for immediate and concerted action to safeguard the health and well-being of the population in these affected regions.
