Record smog darkens Lahore as AQI hits 1,165 mark

All steps taken by the Punjab government to bring down pollution levels in Lahore have failed as the air quality index (AQI) touched an unprecedented 1165 mark in the city on Wednesday, again placing the city at the top of the list of the world’s most polluted cities, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The smog was so thick that even the rays of the sun hardly reached the ground which gave the feeling as if the day was still to dawn.

The AQI at DHA Phase-8, Lahore was recorded at 1,696, while it was 1,643 over the US consulate, 1,232 over Askari-10, 1,165 at Syed Maratab Ali Road and 782 at Johar Town.

Winds blowing from east to west (India to Pakistan) further exacerbated the problem and the Met Office predicted it was not over yet as there were no chances of rain and the situation would remain the same or even get worse.

On the other hand, Environment Protection Agency (EPA) Secretary Raja Jahangir Anwar urged citizens to avoid going outside unnecessarily, and if it was really necessary, wear facemasks and take other precautionary measures.   

Similarly, he said, people should also keep the doors and windows of their homes shut.

Multan was the second most polluted city in the country as the AQI there was recorded at 762.

It was followed by Multan where the AQI stood at 762, while it was 346 in Peshawar.   

Met Office predicts dry weather for Lahore

To make matters worse, the Met Office forecast dry weather for Lahore and most of other parts of the country.

Reporter: Komal Aslam