‘Namaz-e-Istisqa’ to be held across Punjab on November 15

Punjab will observe "Namaz-e-Istisqa" (prayer for rain) on November 15, in an effort to combat the persistent smog that has enveloped the region.

The prayer, which is a form of collective repentance and a plea for divine intervention, will be conducted across the province, as announced by the Department of Religious Affairs, Express News reported.

The prayer is seen as an appeal for rain, which officials believe is urgently needed to alleviate the impact of the ongoing smog crisis.

The thick haze has led to poor air quality, with Lahore being ranked as one of the world's most polluted cities in recent days. The heavy fog has disrupted daily life and caused serious health concerns due to the hazardous air.

The Department of Meteorology has indicated that strong winds and thunderstorms may bring some relief, but rainfall is expected to be minimal in Lahore and its surrounding areas.

The prayer, typically held during times of drought, serves as a collective plea for mercy and rainfall to break the dry spell.

The prayer will be performed in open spaces, with the hope that it will spark the mercy of Allah and bring much-needed relief from the effects of smog.

Lahore smog

Punjab's capital Lahore ranked world’s second most polluted city on the global pollution charts due to worsening smog conditions, while Delhi continues to top the list.

Environmental reports showed Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) reached a concerning 644, while Delhi’s recorded an unprecedented AQI of 1,267 overnight.

Following Lahore, Multan emerged as Pakistan’s second most polluted city, with Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar trailing in third, fourth, and fifth spots, respectively.

Heavy smog and fog have enveloped much of Punjab’s plains, severely reducing visibility and prompting road closures. In certain areas, visibility has dropped to zero.

The spokesperson for the Motorway Police stated that several sections of motorways, including the M2, M3, M4, and M5, have been closed to ensure public safety.

Environmental experts attribute the thick smog to climate change impacts, urging immediate action to mitigate health risks.

Moreover, smog has forced the Punjab government to extend school closures to 36 districts for five days and encouraged them to go for online classes instead and reduced attendance by half at all government offices on Tuesday.