Severe Cold, Dense Fog Disrupt Life in Punjab, Sindh

News Desk

Islamabad: A freezing cold wave has engulfed Punjab and Sindh, covering the plains with dense fog and disrupting daily life and travel.

The Motorway police announced the closure of key routes, including Motorway M-5 from Rahim Yar Khan to Ghotki and Motorway M-4 from Khanewal to Abdul Hakeem, due to near-zero visibility early Sunday morning.

Spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmad stated that the closures were necessary to ensure public safety. He advised travelers to plan their journeys between 10 am and 6 pm when visibility improves.

“Drivers should use front and backlights, maintain safe distances, and avoid unnecessary travel,” he said, adding that assistance is available via Helpline 130.

The seasonal fog and cold spell have significantly impacted road safety and routine activities in the region.

In Lahore, partly cloudy weather brought some relief as a cool breeze at 2 km/h slightly reduced air pollution. However, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at a hazardous 291, making it the second most polluted city in the country.

Severe pollution levels were noted in several areas:

Phase-8, DHA: 841 AQI

Askari-10: 678 AQI

Power Zone Head Office: 628 AQI

Block A, Johar Town: 613 AQI

Raiwind: 553 AQI

Polo Ground Cantonment: 538 AQI

University of Management and Technology: 416 AQI

The Met Office forecasted a maximum temperature of 20°C and a minimum of 8°C for Lahore, with a mere 5 percent chance of rain despite partly cloudy skies.

Cold and dry weather is expected to persist across most parts of the country, while isolated rainfall is predicted in upper areas over the next 24 hours.