Smog Crisis: NDMA Issues Guidelines for Punjab, Pothohar

News Desk

Islamabad: As a response to the escalating smog trend caused by current weather conditions in the Punjab plains and the Pothohar region, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has released a vital advisory on Tuesday. This advisory aims to provide essential guidance to the general public, helping them navigate the growing risks associated with declining air quality.

Based on current conditions, stable weather in the plains of Punjab, coupled with emissions from vehicles and industries, residual rice crop burning, and an upcoming westerly system, air quality is expected to worsen in the plains of Punjab and in Potohar as well, said the NDMA advisory.

The advisory noted that precautionary measures against smog included limited outdoor activities and spending more time indoors during smoggy days.Moreover, the masses have been exhorted to wear masks when going outside to reduce the inhalation of smog particles.

NDMA advised citizen to stay informed about local air quality levels and follow recommendations from authorities. Drink plenty of water to keep your respiratory system hydrated.

According to the forecast, poor Air Quality Index (AQI) readings are expected during the coming week in central and south Punjab, with hazardous smog levels in the cities of Gujranwala, Multan, Lahore, Bahawalpur, and Faisalabad, as well as surrounding areas such as Sargodha, DG Khan and Sahiwal divisions.

However, moderate to poor AQI is also expected in the Rawalpindi division, including Islamabad.