LAHORE - The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a crucial warning regarding the increasing levels of smog in Lahore and others parts of the country in the coming days, raising questions about its impact on educational activities.
The Met Office said the dry weather conditions are expected to worsen the smog situation. The thick layer of smog is predicted to cover areas in eastern Punjab, with major cities likely to experience dangerously high levels of pollution.
The report attributes the smog primarily to industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust, which are major contributors to the toxic air.
Today (October 24), Lahore has once again topped the global list of the most polluted cities, as air quality reached dangerously high levels.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) for the city has been recorded at a 'hazardous' 362, making it the most polluted city worldwide.
According to the latest data from the Meteorological Department, various areas within Lahore reported alarming AQI levels.
Shalamar area is the most polluted city in Lahore with an AQI of 690, while Shadman recorded 611.
Other areas such as Syed Maratib Ali Road and Iqbal Town also faced significant pollution, with readings of 609 and 599, respectively.
Lower Mall had an AQI of 540, and the Civil Secretariat reported 518. Even areas like FC College and Model Town saw concerning AQI levels of 480 and 455.
Last year, the Punjab government had closed the schools from November 3 for a week and the closure of had also been extended for another week from November 13 due to severe air pollution.
This year, the provincial government and education department are closely monitoring the worsening air pollution situation in Lahore and other cities.
However, they have taken no any decision about closure of schools so far. If the smog situation worsens, the government may close the schools of primary levels for their safety.
The department has also warned that the pollution levels are likely to rise in the coming days. The forecast predicts an increase in smog due to dry weather conditions, which are conducive to the formation of dense smog. The smog is expected to persist over Eastern Punjab, with major cities experiencing further deterioration in air quality.
The primary causes of smog include industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust, both of which are significant contributors to air pollution. The rise in smog levels is likely to lead to an increase in respiratory illnesses, with vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions being most at risk.