Punjab continues to reel under severe smog as polluted winds blowing from India have further deteriorated the air quality across the province, with Lahore emerging among the most polluted cities in the world.
According to air quality monitoring data, Lahore ranked second on the global pollution index on Sunday, with its average Air Quality Index (AQI) surging to 479, placing it in the “hazardous” category. Several areas reported even more alarming figures: Lower Mall 804, Shadman 790, Gulberg 770, Civil Secretariat 756, Sanda Road 745, DHA 744, and Shalimar 585.
Other major cities in Punjab also reported dangerous AQI levels. Gujranwala recorded 762, Faisalabad 359, and Multan 304, prompting fresh health advisories and government measures.
Health experts have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement and strictly wear masks to reduce exposure to toxic air. Hospitals have reported a rise in cases of respiratory problems, throat infections, eye irritation and asthma-related complaints due to worsening smog.
In response to the crisis, the Punjab government has revised school and college timings. Educational institutions will now open at 8:45 AM from today to help minimize early-morning exposure to smog.
Punjab’s Director General of Environment said the smog-related directives will remain in force until January 31, 2026, adding that violators will face fines ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1 million. He said the decision to change school timings was taken due to the hazardous spike in pollution.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall in Lahore from Monday, raising hopes of a much-needed decline in smog levels. Officials said the expected showers are likely to bring a “significant improvement” in air quality.
