NDMA warns of smog in South Punjab

As smog again begun engulfing Lahore and nearby districts after a relief spanning a few days, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warned that areas in South Punjab might also face a risk in the coming days.

The Air Quality Index in the Lahore, that was decreased to 60, was recorded at up to 184 with smog visible in the crowded parts of the city. Environmental experts said smoke from unfit vehicles and dust from road and construction work in the city and overcome the improvement in environment caused by the recent rain.

The NDMA warned that smog might affect areas in South Punjab in the coming days, advising the local residents to adopt precautionary measure, limit travel and wear mask.

The people of Lahore, Gujarnwala, Sheikhupura and Kasur had suffered due to toxic smog for three weeks. The provincial capital also ranked among the most polluted cities of the world.

A large number of people suffering from diseases caused by smog had thronged hospitals in the affected districts.

However, rain in the area last week proved a blessing for the residents and improve the environment.

Four days later, clouds of smog again started appearing over several areas of Lahore, including Ravi Road, Multan Road, Sabzazar, Bund Road, Gulberg, Manawan, Mahmood Booti and the Defence area.

“The AQI at Town Hall was recorded 184, while it was 174 at Lahore College for Women University. In Faisalabad, the AQI was recorded at 164,” Environment Protection Deputy Director Farooq Alam said.

“We have the facility of monitoring the AQI in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad, but we cannot comment about the AQI in South Punjab,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 14^th, 2023.