The smog crisis in Punjab has escalated, with Lahore once again topping the list of the most polluted cities in the country. This morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore soared to a staggering 901, marking an unprecedented level of air pollution.

Visibility has deteriorated to zero in several areas, prompting authorities to close multiple motorways for public safety. The Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M2) and Lahore-Sialkot Motorway have been shut down, along with Motorway (M3) from Lahore to Dera Ghazi Khan, M4 from Pindi Bhattian to Multan, and M5 from Multan to Jalalpur.

The smog has not only affected travel but has also led to a rise in respiratory illnesses across the province. In response, a crackdown is underway against individuals and businesses failing to adhere to smog standard operating procedures (SOPs).

In addition to Lahore, other cities such as Rawalpindi, Multan, and Peshawar are also experiencing severe smog and fog conditions, with Multan ranked as the second most polluted city, Rawalpindi in third, and Peshawar in fourth.

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A spokesperson for the motorway police emphasized that the closures are necessary to ensure public safety, urging citizens to travel during daylight hours and to use fog lights in their vehicles. As the situation develops, residents are advised to remain vigilant and take precautions against the health impacts of the ongoing smog crisis.