Lahore’s Air Quality Worsens, Motorways Shut Due to Fog
News Desk
Islamabad: Despite light rain helping to reduce smog in Lahore on Monday, the city was still ranked the third most polluted in the world on Wednesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at a concerning 244.
Areas like Chatha Park had an alarming AQI of 689, while other parts of the city, including Askari-10 (616), Phase 8, DHA (582), the US Consulate (467), and Johar Town (460), also reported high pollution levels.
As winter sets in, Lahore’s weather is turning colder, with fog starting to disrupt daily life. The Met Office forecasted a maximum temperature of 20°C for Wednesday afternoon, with a minimum of 7°C.
The weather is expected to remain dry in the coming days, but the fog is making travel hazardous, especially on major highways.
Fog Forces Motorway Closures
Fog led to the closure of several motorway sections, including M-2 (Lahore to Khanqah Dogran), M-3 (Lahore to Rajana), M-4 (Pindi Bhattian to Multan), M-5 (Multan to Rohri), and M-11 (Lahore to Sialkot), as reported by Motorway Police spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmad.
Other areas such as Thokar Niaz Beg, Mohlanwal, Manga Mandi, Pattoki, and Okara also saw heavy fog, impairing visibility and causing delays.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to drive cautiously when conditions require. Motorists are advised to use fog lights, reduce speed, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. In case of emergencies, people are encouraged to dial the helpline number 130.
Fog Causes Accidents
In Bahawalpur, fog-related visibility issues led to a road accident involving a passenger coach traveling from Multan to Karachi. The collision with a truck left four people, including the driver, injured. Rescue teams are continuing efforts to assist the victims.
As Lahore battles both pollution and fog, residents and travelers are urged to take extra precautions, while authorities work to address the growing challenges posed by the worsening environmental conditions.
