Lahore again becomes world's most polluted city

Lahore: The provincial capital Lahore has once again become the first in the list of the most polluted cities, which the Air Quality Index (AQI) increasing to an alarming level, i.e. 326 on Tuesday.

AQI measures the amount of particulate matter in the atmosphere, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), coarse particulate matter (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (o3). An AQI above 100 is considered 'unhealthy' while above 150 is considered 'extremely harmful'.

The smog crisis mainly caused by the burning of crop residues and industrial emissions has forced the Punjab government to take urgent and drastic decisions to protect public health.

Due to the dangerous smog, the city is facing widespread health problems including coughing, breathing problems, eye irritation and skin infections.

Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or heart diseases are particularly susceptible.

Meanwhile, Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb launched the 'Anti-Smog Squad' during a function at the provincial agriculture department headquarters.

Talking to the media on the occasion, she said that the anti-smog squad is a step towards a smog-free Punjab.

She stated the squads would educate farmers about the dangers of crop residue burning, promote the use of super seeders, and offer alternative methods of residue disposal while visiting smog-affected areas. They have been provided with vehicles to visit the smog-affected areas.

Marriyum added that the squad will also issue warnings and take timely action if necessary and adopt a policy of zero tolerance against factors contributing to air pollution.

The provincial minister said that the positive effects of measures taken to prevent smog will be seen in 8-10 years. Environmental protection has been included in the curriculum as a subject in the province.