Lahore, with AQI 244, emerges as world’s third most-polluted city
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Despite a reduction in smog following light rain reported from different parts of Lahore on Monday, the Punjab capital was still ranked as the third most polluted city in the world on Wednesday as the AQI in the city was recorded at 244, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
The AQI at Chatha Park was recorded at 689.
Similarly, it was 616 at Askari-10, 582 at Phase 8, DHA, 467 at the US consulate and 460 at Johar Town.
On the other hand, as is the case with other parts of the country, the weather in the provincial capital is turning colder day by day and fog too is making its presence felt.
The Met Office forecast that the maximum temperature on Wednesday afternoon would be recorded at 20 degrees Celsius while it would remain seven degrees Celsius on the minimum side.
It also predicted dry weather for the city and most of other areas of the country.
Motorways closed due to fog
Meanwhile, fog led to the closure of different sections of the motorway.
Motorway Police (MP) spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmad said that M-2, from Lahore to Khanqah Dogran, M-3, from Lahore to Rajana, M-4, from Pindi Bhattian to Multan, M-5, from Multan to Rohri and M-11, from Lahore to Sialkot, were all closed for traffic.
Similarly, he said there were patches of fog at Thokar Niaz Beg, Mohlanwal, Manga Mandi, Pattoki and Okara.
The spokesperson advised people to first avoid traveling unnecessarily due to fog. “And if is really necessary, prefer travelling during the daytime and turn the fog lights of your vehicles on while driving,” Imran said, adding, “Motorists should refrain from driving at a fast speed and keep distance from other vehicles.”
He asked people to dial the helpline number 130 in case of an emergency.
Five injured in road accident in Bahawalpur
On the other hand, four people, including the driver of a passenger coach, heading from Multan to Karachi, were injured after it collided with a truck in Bahawalpur on account of poor visibility due to fog.
Rescue efforts were underway till last reports came in.
Reporters: Komal Aslam, Rana Faran Yamin, Tahir Joeya