The Met Department has issued a warning about potential smog affecting various parts of the country from mid-November to December.
The advisory indicates that this smog could pose significant health risks and worsen air pollution, particularly in cities such as Lahore, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, and Faisalabad. The department also cautioned that the smog might worsen respiratory issues, including asthma.
Additionally, the Met Department noted that smog can cause travel disruptions due to decreased visibility.
Currently, Lahore’s air quality has reached hazardous levels, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting an alarming 367, making it the most polluted city globally.
International air monitoring agencies report that the concentration of harmful chemicals in Lahore’s atmosphere is 50 times higher than the levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The areas most affected include Defense Phase 8, where the AQI soared to a dangerous 443. Walton and nearby areas reported an AQI of 362, while other locations like Davies Road (296), Wapda Town (292), and Cantt (284) also showed extremely high pollution levels.
Lahore’s air is filled with hazardous substances like sulfate, nitrate, and carbon, presenting severe health risks. Medical experts warn that the air has become “poisonous” to breathe, strongly advising residents to wear filtered masks when going outside to protect themselves from the toxic pollutants.
