LAHORE — Lahore’s air quality declined on Tuesday as smog returned after a week, prompting updated health advisories from authorities.
Data from IQAir, a global air monitoring agency, showed the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to 567, a level deemed “hazardous” and among the highest recorded globally. By Tuesday evening, multiple stations across Lahore reported severe pollution readings of 435 at the CERP Office, 428 on Ravi Road, and 358 in Model Town, leaving millions of residents struggling under a veil of toxic air.
Medical experts have warned citizens, especially children, senior citizens, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions, to stay indoors. Those compelled to go outside have been urged to wear N95 or KN95 masks.
The city’s skyline remained obscured under a greyish haze, the result of vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, and crop residue burning, turning daylight into a muted orange gloom.
In response, the Punjab Police expanded their anti-smog operations, registering 26 new cases in the past day and issuing fines totaling more than Rs1 million. Cumulatively, since the beginning of the year, 2,388 cases have been filed, 2,106 individuals arrested, and over Rs230 million in fines collected for environmental violations, including the operation of smoke-emitting vehicles and unauthorized burning activities.
Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar has instructed officers to maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward those contributing to air pollution.
Meanwhile, IQAir reported that Pakistan’s average PM2.5 level in 2024 has reached 73.7 µg/m³, nearly 15 times above the WHO-recommended limit, placing the nation as the third most polluted country in the world.
Authorities have reiterated calls for citizens to minimize outdoor exposure as Lahore endures yet another surge of toxic smog.