As air pollution reaches catastrophic levels in Punjab, Pakistan, authorities are taking significant steps to combat the crisis. Lahore, the province's bustling capital, recently reported an Air Quality Index soaring over 1,165, marking a dire situation for its 13 million residents. In response, officials declared a state of emergency, urging half the workforce to stay at home and extending school closures for another week.
Marriyum Aurangzeb, a senior official in Punjab, stressed the severity of the situation, following over 900 hospitalizations due to respiratory issues on a single day. Designed to safeguard public health, the government's new measures will affect over 70 million people, prompting the shift to online schooling until November 17.
Authorities are also intensifying pollution control, including banning excessively polluting vehicles and dismantling harmful brick kilns. Experts warn that Lahore consistently ranks among the world’s most polluted cities, contributing to significant health risks and economic losses. With air quality expected to remain poor for approximately another week, residents are advised to wear masks and minimize outdoor activities.
Marriyum Aurangzeb, a senior official in Punjab, stressed the severity of the situation, following over 900 hospitalizations due to respiratory issues on a single day. Designed to safeguard public health, the government's new measures will affect over 70 million people, prompting the shift to online schooling until November 17.
Authorities are also intensifying pollution control, including banning excessively polluting vehicles and dismantling harmful brick kilns. Experts warn that Lahore consistently ranks among the world’s most polluted cities, contributing to significant health risks and economic losses. With air quality expected to remain poor for approximately another week, residents are advised to wear masks and minimize outdoor activities.
