Lahore has once again claimed the unfortunate title of the world’s most polluted city, grappling with a severe smog crisis. The Punjab government has responded by implementing a series of emergency measures, including the announcement of green lockdowns in 11 hotspots across the city.

All primary schools, both public and private, have been closed for a week, starting today, with a further review scheduled for November 9th to determine whether the closures will be extended or lifted. A ban on the use of three-wheeled auto-rickshaws (chingchi rickshaws) and plastic bags has also been implemented.

The air quality index (AQI) soared to alarming levels this morning, solidifying Lahore’s position at the top of the world’s most polluted cities list, surpassing even Delhi, India.

The government’s response includes the implementation of green lockdowns in 11 high-pollution areas. Heavy vehicles are also banned from entering the city, a restriction effective from November 8th, 2023, to January 31st, 2025, with exemptions for essential services such as fuel, medicine, hospital supplies, and food deliveries. The ban will be strictly enforced on Fridays and Sundays.

Despite these measures, citizens’ disregard for ‘Green Lockdown’ continues, leading to a rise in cases of eye irritation and throat ailments.

Meanwhile, in Rawalpindi, the anti-smog campaign has intensified, resulting in the demolition of 19 factories contributing to air pollution and the levying of an 8 million rupee fine for violations of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

The situation highlights the urgent need for sustained and comprehensive efforts to combat air pollution in Pakistan’s major cities.