LAHORE: Smog has once again gripped Punjab, with Lahore recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 599, making it the most polluted city in the world. After a brief period of relief, the intensity of smog in Lahore has risen sharply, causing severe problems for residents.
According to reports, polluted winds blowing in from India have worsened Lahore’s air quality. While Lahore tops the global list, New Delhi follows with an AQI of 481. Within Lahore, areas like Syed Maratib Ali Road saw AQI levels skyrocket to 1,097, Raiwind recorded 830, and Gulberg reached 802. Other cities in Punjab, such as Multan, recorded an AQI of 284, Peshawar 252, Rawalpindi 175, and Islamabad 142, also reported unhealthy air quality levels.
No Rain Forecast for Lahore
The Meteorological Department has confirmed that there is no forecast for rain in Lahore in the coming week. The city’s weather is expected to remain cold and dry, with a morning temperature of 16°C recorded today. The minimum temperature could drop to 11°C, while the maximum is expected to reach 23°C. Humidity levels were recorded at 84%, with wind speeds of 5 km/h.
Schools Reopen
Schools in Punjab were closed due to the smog crisis, but as conditions improved, they have been reopened.
According to Punjab Secretary of Schools, Khalid Nazir Wattoo, all schools will remain closed for 20 days, from December 20, 2024, to January 10, 2025.
