Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan, has now earned the dubious distinction of being the world’s second most polluted city. The dense smog enveloping Lahore and its neighboring areas has become an environmental and public health emergency. The situation has escalated to such a degree that it is visible from space, showcasing the gravity of the crisis to the world.
NASA Imagery
Recent NASA satellite images reveal alarming visuals of the pollution blanketing Punjab and extending into northeastern India. The imagery from November 12, when compared to data from September 12, demonstrates a dramatic increase in the concentration and spread of smog. A massive grey cloud can be seen spanning across Lahore and stretching well beyond provincial borders, underscoring the scale of the pollution crisis. The visibility of this smog from space highlights not only its magnitude but also its impact on regional air quality, affecting millions across South Asia.
AQI Levels
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore has reached life-threatening levels, with certain areas reporting figures exceeding 1,000. To put this into perspective, an AQI level above 300 is considered hazardous, posing serious risks to health. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a daily maximum of PM 2.5 levels at 15 µg/m³, yet Lahore’s readings have frequently reached upwards of 400 µg/m³ in recent weeks, signaling an emergency. Such figures mark the city’s air as perilous, capable of causing acute respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
How It Is Affecting People
The impact of this smog on the residents of Lahore is profound. Hospital visits for respiratory illnesses, eye irritation, and cardiovascular problems have surged, putting additional pressure on the city’s healthcare system. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions, face the greatest risk. The persistent air pollution has also disrupted daily life, with limited outdoor activities and widespread anxiety among citizens. Public health experts have repeatedly stressed that prolonged exposure to such high levels of pollution can lead to chronic health issues and reduced life expectancy.
Current Measures
International Cooperation
While local sources account for approximately 70% of the smog in Lahore, about 30% comes from India, as noted by Manoj Kumar from the Finnish Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. The interconnected Indo-Gangetic Plain contributes to shared air quality issues between the two nations. Recognizing this, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz plans to reach out to her Indian counterpart, aiming to foster dialogue and collaborative efforts for better air quality management. Kumar praised this initiative, emphasizing that a long-term, unified approach could improve conditions for both sides of the border. Additionally, Pakistan is considering hosting a regional climate conference in Lahore to explore collective solutions.
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