Polluted air from India pushes Lahore’s air quality to dangerous levels

LAHORE: Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) has surged to hazardous levels, reaching up to 900 in certain areas as polluted air carrying high levels of smog originating from India entered the city.

Pollution from cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh and Amritsar has entered Lahore, with data from Pakistani satellites and meteorological agencies showing the wind traveling towards the city at a speed of 7 kilometres per hour.

An AQI above 150 is considered unhealthy, while readings exceeding 300 pose severe health risks.

As pollution levels rise, residents have been experiencing an uptick in respiratory ailments, including colds, coughs, fevers, eye irritation and sore throats.

Citizens with respiratory issues have been facing serious health issues as Lahore’s AQI now stands hazardous for sensitive groups.

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The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast dry weather over the next few days with no chance of rain, which could prolong the poor air quality.

Experts have advised residents to wear masks and glasses, avoid outdoor activities, limit children’s outdoor play and keep windows and doors closed.

People with respiratory and heart conditions have been urged not to exercise outdoors without consulting doctors and avoid unnecessary travel to heavily polluted areas.

Secretary of Environmental Protection Raja Jahangir Anwar has advised citizens to report any smoke emissions immediately at the hotline number 1373.