Pollution in Lahore.

Lahore, the city of neighboring country Pakistan, has become the second most polluted city in the world. Where even breathing has become difficult. Its direct impact is on people’s health. The air quality index (AQI) here has reached dangerous levels. AQI 396 was recorded here on Saturday.

Citing reports, ARY News reported that the air quality remains extremely hazardous in various parts of Punjab, Pakistan. According to the report, Faisalabad remains the most polluted city in Pakistan, where AQI was recorded at 571, while Gujranwala stood second in the country with particulate matter levels of 570. Lahore’s AQI was 396, while Multan’s AQI index was 257.

Air pollution and smog wreaked havoc

Last year, at the beginning of winter, air pollution and smog wreaked havoc in Punjab, Pakistan. Authorities made tireless efforts to control smog in cities. The province was suffering from severe air pollution, which had increased to dangerous levels, causing serious public health problems.

falling temperature with cold wind

For days, Lahore was shrouded in a mixture of smog and pollutants, produced by low-grade diesel fumes and the burning of seasonal agricultural waste, causing temperatures to drop with a cold breeze. Air pollution levels in Lahore were once more than 80 times the level considered healthy by the World Health Organization (WHO).

AQI reading recorded above 300

Arya News reported that the government closed schools and limited the opening hours of eateries, other businesses and markets to protect the general public from the ill effects of toxic pollution and health problems. Earlier, Dawn had reported that many other urban centers also recorded AQI readings above 300 as authorities issued advisories asking residents to stop leaving their homes, keep windows closed, wear masks outside and use air purifiers indoors.

responsible for increasing levels of air pollution

Human Rights Watch noted in a report that the destruction of green areas in Lahore, concrete structures replacing agricultural land, crop burning, and the lack of a viable public transport system have also contributed to worsening air pollution over the years. Burning of fossil fuels for transportation, heating, waste incineration, power generation and other industrial activities is responsible for increasing levels of air pollution.