The intensity of smog in Punjab has increased significantly, with Lahore once again ranking as the world’s most polluted city. This morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was at 717, which has now surged to 1537.

Following Lahore, Multan ranks second and Peshawar third in terms of pollution.

Meanwhile, the health department reported that in the last 24 hours, 75,655 patients were recorded, including 68,917 with cold and flu symptoms, 4,646 with respiratory issues, 257 with heart diseases, 134 with strokes, and 701 with eye problems, all of whom received medical assistance in various hospitals.

Over the past 30 days, a total of 2,083,717 cases have been reported in Punjab. The province is currently enveloped in clouds of pollution and dust.

Motorway closed

Due to heavy fog, several motorways have been closed to traffic. Motorway M-2 is closed from Sheikhupura to Kot Momin, M-3 from Lahore to Dera Khan, and M-4 from Pindi Bhattian to Abdul Hakim. Additionally, Motorway M-5 is closed from Sher Shah Multan to Sukkur, and the Lahore-Sialkot motorway is also shut down.

The motorway police have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, as flight arrivals and departures are experiencing delays, and train schedules are also affected.

According to the police, a crackdown on smog-related violations is ongoing, with 86 cases registered in various districts over the last 24 hours and 13 individuals arrested. Furthermore, 15 brick kilns were demolished in Arifwala.

The Environmental Department has prepared a report to address smog issues, indicating that landfill sites for waste disposal will be established further from the city.

On a positive note for residents of Punjab affected by smog, the Meteorological Department has forecast light rain in most districts starting this evening.

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From today until November 16, rain is expected in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Attock, Chakwal, Talagang, Jhelum, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Mianwali, Khushab, and Sargodha. Thunderstorms and rain are also anticipated on November 15 in Bhakkar, Layyah, and Dera Ghazi Khan, which could help reduce smog levels.

Additionally, rain and snowfall in the mountains are expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan throughout the week.