Multan ranks as the most polluted city in the world on Monday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching an alarming level of 955 particulate meters, indicating extreme air pollution.
The Motorway Police have announced the closure of Motorway M-5 from Multan to Sukkur in response to hazardous conditions. Dense smog has also spread to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), with Peshawar now listed among the highly polluted cities.
Moreover, the Motorway Police confirmed that Motorway M-4 from Multan to Pindi Bhattian is also closed due to the thick smog. Heavy traffic has been restricted from entering the city starting tomorrow to help manage the pollution levels and improve public safety.
Despite government efforts to implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), violations continue unabated, with smoke-belching vehicles and roadside food stalls contributing significantly to the smog crisis.
Like other cities in Punjab, Schools in Multan will also remain closed for ten days. The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency has ordered the installation of air purifiers across all districts of Punjab due to the toxic smog.
Smog is a type of air pollution consisting of a mixture of smoke, fog, and chemical pollutants. It is commonly linked to industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and other sources of air pollution.
Causes of Smog
Some of the main causes of smog are listed below:
- Emissions from Vehicles
- Industrial Activities
- Burning of Fossil Fuels
- Natural Sources
- Geographic and Climatic Conditions
Prevention of Smog
Smog can be reduced by taking the following measures:
- Regulating Emissions
- Promoting Public Transportation
- Using Clean Energy
- Planting Trees
- Raising Public Awareness
- Monitoring Air Quality
By understanding the causes, effects, and prevention strategies of smog, we can take meaningful steps to improve air quality and protect public health. You can also see libe AQI here.
