Lahore has once again claimed the unfortunate title of the world’s most polluted city, shrouded in a thick smog that has brought the region to a standstill. The severe air pollution, coupled with dense fog, has led to widespread disruption, including the closure of major motorway sections and a bus accident.

Visibility plummeted this morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to a staggering 951. This hazardous level of pollution prompted authorities to close various sections of the motorway network, including the M2 (Lahore-Kot Momin and Lahore-Sialkot sections), and portions of the M4 and M5 (Multan-Sukkur). The motorway near Jalalpur Pirwala remains closed as well, with citizens urged to stay indoors.

The hazardous conditions have resulted in a surge in respiratory illnesses, eye irritation, and throat problems. Despite government-imposed Green Lockdown restrictions, many businesses remained open late into the night, although markets are closed today.

Authorities have also taken action, removing 42 smoke-emitting buses from service. Multan and Lahore are the hardest-hit cities.

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The smog has also caused accidents. A private school bus carrying students returning from a picnic overturned in Ali Pur due to poor visibility, injuring five students and the driver.

The Meteorological Department offers a glimmer of hope, predicting light rain for tomorrow and the possibility of snowfall in the northern mountainous regions.

Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb attributed the crisis to polluted air blowing in from India, urging citizens to exercise caution and follow government guidelines. The situation underscores the urgent need for effective measures to combat air pollution and protect public health in the region.