The air in Lahore has reached a dangerously unhealthy level with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 175, driven primarily by fine particulate matter PM2.5 (AQI). This pollutant poses serious risks to cardiovascular and lung health and silent long-term consequences for the city's residents.
Causes & Government Response
The city’s smog stems from multiple sources: vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, dust from construction, brick-kilns, and crop-residue burning in surrounding rural areas (IQAir). The provincial government has rolled out measures—such as anti-smog guns, mask mandates for traffic workers, and temporary closures of schools and outdoor facilities (BioEnergy Times). However, critics say most efforts are reactive rather than structural. Implementation is uneven, monitoring is limited, and the annual average PM2.5 remains drastically above safe levels (Dawn).
What You Should Do
To protect your health:
- Limit outdoor activity, especially strenuous exercise when AQI is high.
- Wear a well-fitting mask (eg. N95 or equivalent) when you must go outside.
- Keep windows closed and run an indoor air purifier if possible.
- Avoid burning waste or using unclean fuels at home.
- Seek medical advice if you experience coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or any breathing difficulty.
With pollution levels at “unhealthy” status and rising during smog season, awareness and action matter—for both individuals and authorities.
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