New Delhi, Lahore most polluted cities

Senior minister urges citizens to stay indoors

LAHORE:

New Delhi and Lahore ranked as the most polluted cities in the world in terms of air quality on Monday.

Due to changing wind patterns, New Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 393, while Lahore's AQI was 280. Wind speeds ranged between two and 5.5 kilometres per hour from south to east, creating challenges in reducing pollution levels.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that Kolkata had ranked third with a score of 189, followed by Dubai, Cairo and Dhaka.

She said the Punjab government was implementing strict measures against pollution, closely monitoring the situation through a control room and advising the public to stay indoors.

The environmental authorities and district administration were overseeing compliance to prevent crop residue burning by imposing fines and making arrests for violations.

Marriyum Aurangzeb appealed to the public to refrain from activities that increase pollution.

Meanwhile, Lahore Commissioner Zaid bin Maqsood and Punjab Environment Secretary Raja Jahangir Anwar were informed during a meeting to discuss the Green Zone Smog Lockdown strategy that commercial generators within the zone were being strictly monitored. BBQ and food outlets in the Shimla Pahari area are required to shut by 8pm. The shifting of parking from the NADRA office at Shimla Pahari has resulted in an improved air quality and a shuttle service has been launched from Bibi Pak Daman parking to the NADRA office.

Regular spraying and wet sweeping have been ordered throughout the area, while loading and unloading hours for vehicles entering the Green Zone have been restricted. All relevant departments are enforcing bans on encroachments and construction activities. Awareness material is also being distributed at homes.

The commissioner emphasised the necessity of limiting commercial factors contributing to smog and urged increased awareness about wearing masks.