In brief
Record air pollution levels in Lahore prompted the closure of schools and significant government action to protect residents' health.
As Lahore faces its worst air quality ever, officials in Punjab Province have taken drastic steps to tackle the severe pollution engulfing the city, including closing all primary and secondary schools until November 17. The Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to alarming levels, making Lahore the most polluted city globally, per air quality monitoring reports. Hundreds of residents have fallen ill due to the suffocating smog, leading to hospitalizations and forcing half of the city's workforce to remain at home. "You can’t even breathe outside without feeling the effects," lamented one resident, illustrating the dire situation. In response, the government is implementing measures like banning certain types of vehicles, closing barbecue restaurants, and advising mask-wearing in public areas. These actions are part of the provincial government's efforts to combat pollution and safeguard public health as millions are affected by the toxic air. With expectations of prolonged poor air quality, many are left worrying about both their health and the social impacts of these environmental crises.
