Air pollution indexcrosses dangerous level

Smog blankets Pindi, Islamabad and Murree

RAWALPINDI:

Air pollution levels in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and the scenic hill station Murree have crossed the danger threshold, sparking alarm among officials of the Environment Protection and Climate Change Department and district administrations.

Officers have reportedly begun praying for rain as the smog intensifies.

Due to rising pollution, residents in both cities and Murree are suffering from dry cough, throat and eye irritation, and skin problems.

The Environment Department has blamed smoke-emitting vehicles, factories, brick kilns, tire-burning sites, and stone-crushing machines for the deteriorating air quality.

As of now, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Rawalpindi stands at 167, Islamabad at 145, Murree at 137, Chakwal at 119, Attock at 173, and Jhelum at 162. With no rainfall expected over the next ten days, the situation is feared to worsen.

The Education Department has made masks mandatory for all students, teachers, and staff in schools, colleges, and universities.

Students have been advised to drink plenty of water, wash their hands and face frequently, and avoid outdoor activities. Classrooms are to remain closed, and helmets have been made compulsory for motorcyclists.

Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema has ordered a crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles and factories, directing the Civil Defence Department to seal polluting bakeries, industrial units, and brick kilns.

The Agriculture Department has been told to register cases against farmers burning crop residues, while the Municipal Corporation will take action against garbage burning.

Traffic police have been instructed to fine and impound vehicles transporting uncovered building materials. Meanwhile, hospitals across the city are receiving 3,000 to 4,000 daily cases of respiratory and eye infections. Authorities will begin an anti-smog operation from today (Friday), sealing smoke-emitting vehicles and factories.