Lahore tops pollution index | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- Lahore was ranked the most polluted city globally on Saturday with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 163, with several areas classified as 'very unhealthy' (AQI > 200).
- Environmental experts attributed the worsening air quality to vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, and seasonal crop residue burning, urging public protective measures.
- The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that the flood situation in Punjab is under control, with water levels receding and affected families returning home.
- PDMA cautioned that future water releases from India into the Sutlej and Ravi Rivers necessitate continued monitoring and preparedness.
- The weather forecast includes potential rain, thunderstorms, and a risk of flash floods and landslides in northern Punjab, particularly in Murree.
Lahore was declared the most polluted city in the world on Saturday, registering an Air Quality Index (AQ) of 163, with several neighborhoods showing 'very unhealthy' readings exceeding 200 due to vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, and crop burning. Environmental experts strongly advised residents to take protective measures, such as wearing masks and avoiding outdoor activities, as pollution worsens ahead of the winter smog season. In contrast to the air quality crisis, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that the flood situation in Punjab is currently under control, with receding water levels allowing affected families to return home. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that river levels are mostly normal but cautioned that expected water releases from India into the Sutlej and Ravi Rivers require continued monitoring. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast partly cloudy skies and potential rain across the weekend, warning that heavy rainfall could trigger flash floods and landslides in northern Punjab, putting Murree on alert. Authorities are conducting transparent damage surveys across 27 districts to compensate flood victims and restore infrastructure, emphasizing preparedness despite the current improvement.
