Smog alert issued for Lahore as AQI remains high

Lahore: According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and the Smog and Climate Monitoring System, Lahore is likely to experience poor air quality during the early hours of Friday. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecasted to stay at unhealthy levels due to fluctuations in humidity, temperature, and increased vehicular traffic during the morning rush.

The forecast predicts an average AQI of 165 throughout the day in Lahore. Between midnight and 4 a.m., the AQI is expected to rise between 170 and 175. From 5 a.m. to 11 a.m., air quality will slightly improve but remain poor, with an AQI between 160 and 170 driven mainly by heavy traffic on city roads during morning hours.

In the afternoon, rising temperatures and a light breeze are expected to reduce pollution levels, lowering the AQI to between 145 and 150 from noon until 5 p.m. However, air quality may deteriorate again in the evening, with the AQI rising back to 160-170 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Wind speeds are expected to vary between 1 and 11 kilometers per hour throughout the day. The combination of fluctuating wind and lack of rainfall may cause pollutants to accumulate in the atmosphere. By late evening, winds are anticipated to increase gradually to about 5 miles per hour, potentially aiding in the dispersal of pollutants.

The Smog Monitoring Center has issued a health advisory urging sensitive groups including children, elderly citizens, and individuals with respiratory conditions to take precautionary measures.

Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb appealed to the public to join efforts in reducing smog by keeping the environment clean and avoiding pollution. She strongly condemned the burning of crop residues, labeling it a serious offense.

Residents are encouraged to report any environmental violations immediately by contacting the helpline at 1373.