Punjab Steps Up Smog Fight with 41 Squads
APP
Lahore: In response to the worsening smog crisis, the Punjab government has formed 41 emergency anti-smog squads to tackle the growing pollution levels across the province.
Lahore, which remains the most polluted city in the world, continues to experience dangerously high levels of smog. The air quality index in the provincial capital has reached alarming figures, with the overall smog rate at 453, and areas like DHA at 636, American Consulate at 471, and Syed Marat Ali Road at 611.
Crackdown on Polluting Vehicles
As part of the measures, the Lahore High Court has ordered a crackdown on smog-emitting heavy vehicles and motorcycles. In line with this, the Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) of Lahore has established 12 stations and formed 41 specialized anti-smog squads. These squads will focus on taking action against smoke-emitting vehicles, which are major contributors to the city’s air pollution.
Health Impacts of Smog
The health consequences of the severe air pollution are already evident, with hospitals reporting a surge in patients. Over 35,000 individuals have sought medical attention in the past week at five major government hospitals in Lahore, citing issues such as dry cough, difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and chest infections. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, women, and individuals with heart conditions, are particularly at risk.
Road Closures
The smog has also severely impacted travel, with several sections of the motorway being closed due to reduced visibility caused by dense fog and smog. The affected stretches include M1 from Peshawar to Rashkai, M2 from Bhairah to Kot Momin, M3 from Lahore to Darkhana, M4 from Pindi Bhatian to Abdul Hakeem, and M5 from Multan to Sukkur.
Environmental experts have raised alarms about the hazardous effects of smog, urging people to minimize unnecessary travel and take precautions, especially in areas with high concentrations of chemical particles in the air. To mitigate the impacts, air purifiers are set to be installed in districts across Punjab, including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala, in an effort to improve air quality and safeguard public health.
The situation remains critical as authorities continue to work on measures aimed at controlling the pollution and protecting citizens from its harmful effects.
