In brief
Authorities in Lahore have declared a public health emergency due to unprecedented smog levels, prompting school closures and work-from-home regulations.
Amid an alarming surge in air pollution, Lahore, Pakistan's second-largest city with a population of 13 million, has imposed drastic measures to combat a health crisis. The city recently experienced its worst air quality on record, with levels deemed hazardous by international standards. As health risks escalate, authorities have directed half of the city's workforce to stay home, with the closure of all primary and secondary schools until at least November 17.The air quality crisis has left residents struggling against hazardous smog that penetrates homes even when windows are closed. One resident highlighted the dire situation, saying, “The air feels thick, and it’s exhausting just to breathe.” Recent government actions to mitigate the pollution include impounding vehicles contributing to the smog, dismantling various manufacturing kilns, and tightening regulations on rickshaws and barbecue restaurants.The situation is acute, with experts from IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitor, classifying Lahore as the city with the worst air quality globally at times. Officials are advising the use of face masks in public areas as a safety precaution for over 70 million residents across Punjab Province, where Lahore is located. The senior minister of Punjab characterized the air quality issues as "critical," with indications that poor conditions may continue for up to ten more days.The fallout from the smog crisis illustrates the significant public health and environmental challenges that cities in Pakistan face, reflecting broader issues of air pollution and government response to climate-induced crises.
