Health crisis unfolds as thousands seek emergency care amidst lethal smog in Lahore

LAHORE: In the past month, a staggering 12,000 individuals in Lahore sought emergency medical attention, underscoring the detrimental impact of toxic smog on health.

Despite a recent episode of rain offering some relief, Lahore is grappling once again with the persistent issue of smog.

Professor Ashraf Zia of Jinnah Hospital shed light on the enduring health complaints associated with the ongoing smog, including dry cough, sore throat, itchy eyes, and breathing difficulties. The alarming number of patients reporting these health issues underscores the severe smog effect on health.

Although there has been a recent decline in patients reporting nose, ear, throat, and lung issues, the overall impact remains a cause for concern.

The prevalence of health problems linked to smog emphasizes the urgency of addressing and mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution on the well-being of the city’s residents.

According to the Punjab Health Department (PHD), major hospitals have been overwhelmed by patients affected by the smog.

General Hospital admitted over 3,347 patients, Jinnah Hospital received 2,487 cases, Mayo Hospital attended to 2,876 individuals, Services Hospital recorded 5,187 admissions, and Sir Gangaram Hospital saw 1,859 emergency cases.

In response to the crisis, the Punjab government lifted the smart lockdown imposed to address the smog situation after heavy rainfall in parts of Punjab improved air quality by dispelling the smog.

It’s worth noting that a lockdown was implemented from Thursday to Sunday in several cities, including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Narowal, and Hafizabad. According to ProPakistani, this affected educational institutions, offices, shopping malls, restaurants, cinemas, and gyms.

Despite these efforts to mitigate the impact, Lahore still grapples with elevated levels of air pollution, maintaining its unfortunate status as one of the most polluted cities.

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