Lahore finally breathes as rain washes away smog

LAHORE: Lahore, amidst its ongoing struggle against smog and elevated pollution levels, witnessed a substantial transformation in its atmospheric conditions as rain showers blanketed the city, resulting in a noteworthy decline in air pollution.

The morning rain swiftly altered the city’s skyline, introducing clearer and fresher air to the environment. Previously grappling with an air pollution index exceeding 500, positioning it as the world’s most polluted city, Lahore experienced a positive shift in rankings after the rainfall, significantly improving its standing.

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Rainfall covered a wide range of areas, including Gulberg, Garden Town, Iqbal Town, Multan Road, Thokar Niaz Baig, Jail Road, Mall Road, Johar Town, Canal Road, and Raiwind Road, accompanied by thunder and lightning. The intensity of rain varied, ranging from heavy downpours to light showers.

The pollution ratio, initially at 134, saw a considerable decrease post-rain. However, specific zones, such as Johar Town, reported an air quality index reaching 293. On the flip side, several other parts of the city witnessed a decline in air pollution, falling below the 200 mark.

The weather, following the rain, turned pleasantly cool, providing a respite from the usual smoggy and polluted air that had enveloped Lahore in recent days. This collective impact not only led to reduced pollution levels but also brought relief to residents, granting them a much-needed break from the persistent smog that had plagued the city.

REPORT ON LIFE EXPECTANCY

The city’s residents had been experiencing alarming consequences after smog took over Lahore and other parts of Punjab with studies even suggesting an average decrease of 7 years in life expectancy due to it.

For children venturing out into this hazardous atmosphere, the impact was akin to smoking 30 cigarettes daily.

These distressing findings stem from research conducted and published by the University of Chicago. The study reveals a concerning trend: the average age of Lahore’s populace is on the decline, decreasing by seven years annually.

Additionally, the report highlights a startling fact: the current pollution levels pose a risk equivalent to smoking 30 cigarettes a day for children.These escalating smog levels cast doubt on official claims of effective pollution control measures.

MEASURES BY GOVT

Unable to control the situation and hesitant to impose heavy fines on factories emitting smoke, the Punjab government announced a four-day holiday today as it grappled with a deadly wave of smog.

WHAT IS SMOG?

Smog is a form of air pollution that significantly impairs visibility. Coined in the early 1900s, the term “smog” originally referred to a combination of smoke and fog, primarily resulting from the burning of coal.

Smog was prevalent in industrial regions and continues to be a recognisable issue in certain urban areas even today.

Unfortunately, this situation has led to accidents on highways. Last year, the M2 motorway and Lahore Ring Road were closed multiple times due to low visibility.