Dark Skies Over South Asia: Lahore, Delhi Lead Pollution Rankings
APP
Lahore: Lahore and New Delhi have emerged as the most polluted cities in the world in terms of air quality, with both cities facing dangerously high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels.
According to recent data, New Delhi’s AQI reached 393, while Lahore’s AQI stood at 280, raising health and environmental concerns for millions of residents.
Shifting wind patterns, with speeds ranging between 2 to 5.5 kilometers per hour from the south to the east, have complicated efforts to alleviate pollution levels in both cities.
Kolkata in India ranks as the third most polluted city globally with an AQI of 189, followed by Dubai at 177, Cairo at 5th place, and Dhaka at 6th.
Punjab’s Senior Provincial Minister, Marriyum Aurangzeb, in a statement on Monday, noted the extreme spikes Lahore has seen this season, with AQI levels reaching an alarming 1,194 on October 4 due to intense wind activity.
The Punjab government has implemented strict anti-pollution measures, closely monitoring the situation through a control room.
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Officials are advising citizens to limit outdoor activities, especially vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
Environmental authorities and district administration are working to prevent air-quality violations, with fines and arrests for activities like crop residue burning that contribute significantly to smog levels.
Marriyum Aurangzeb called upon the public to take caution in response to the seasonal conditions and urged media and social influencers to play an active role in raising awareness about pollution’s health impacts and promoting sustainable practices.
Choking on Smog
Lahore ranks as the second most polluted city globally, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) peaking at 714 in DHA Phase-VIII.
The Punjab government has imposed stringent measures, including restricting heavy vehicle entry and announcing school closures from Nov. 4-9, in response to the severe smog.
