Dry weather grips Pakistan as Lahore tops pollution index, again

WEB DESK: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast mainly dry and cold weather across most parts of the country, while air quality index (AQI) in Lahore continues to deteriorate, placing the city at the top of the list of the world’s most polluted cities.

According to the latest weather advisory, Islamabad and surrounding areas are expected to remain dry, while most districts of Balochistan will experience dry and cold conditions. Similar cold weather is likely in Murree, Galiyat, and adjoining hilly regions.

Meanwhile, smog is expected to persist in several cities of Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Okara, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Khanewal, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalpur, and Multan. Authorities have urged residents to take precautionary measures, especially during early morning and evening hours when smog density tends to rise.

In Sindh, partly cloudy weather is likely along the southeastern coastal areas, while rain has been forecast at a few places in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, and Kurram. The weather in Azad Kashmir is expected to remain dry and cold, while Gilgit-Baltistan may receive light rain and snowfall in scattered areas.

LAHORE’S AQI REACHES 420

In Lahore, the situation remains alarming as the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 420, indicating hazardous conditions. The highest AQI of 751 was recorded at Cantt Court, followed by 713 in the MAO College area and 591 in Township. Despite the poor air quality, the weather in Lahore remains clear with sunny skies.

Environmental experts warn that stagnant weather patterns and dry conditions are likely to worsen air quality in the coming days unless significant measures are taken to curb vehicular emissions and industrial pollution.