LAHORE – The Punjab Environment Protection and Climate Change Department (EPCCD) has issued a smog alert as toxic air continues to engulf central Punjab, with pollution levels soaring to hazardous levels due to polluted eastern winds blowing in from India.
According to EPCCD officials, Lahore’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to remain between 320 and 360 in the coming days. The provincial capital currently ranks as the third most polluted city in Pakistan, with its AQI reaching 450 — a level deemed dangerous for human health.
The department said that while air pollution remains critically high, continuous monitoring is underway. A temporary improvement in Lahore’s air quality is expected between 1 pm and 5 pm.
Data from global air quality monitors revealed alarming particulate matter readings — 1,018 at the Lahore Secretariat, 997 on Sanda Road, and 820 on Ravi Road — categorizing the air as “extremely hazardous.”
Experts have advised citizens to wear masks, stay indoors whenever possible, and avoid unnecessary outdoor movement during peak smog hours.
Several areas including Barki Road, Shahdara, Multan Road, GT Road, and Egerton Road recorded AQI readings of 500, reflecting severe smog conditions.
Dera Ghazi Khan and Kasur also ranked among the most polluted cities in the province, with both reporting AQI levels of 500.
Particulate matter was measured at 286 in Kasur, 601 in Raiwind, 442 in Gujranwala, 398 in Lahore, 337 in Faisalabad and 358 in Sheikhupura — confirming that widespread smog has severely affected major cities across Punjab.
The EPCCD urged citizens to cooperate in controlling smog by avoiding waste burning, limiting vehicle use and supporting provincial measures to curb pollution.
