Lahore Remains Shrouded in Smog
Lahore remained enveloped in a thick layer of smog, claiming the top spot for air pollution at midday, despite the implementation of a three-day smart lockdown by the caretaker government.
The decision to impose the smart lockdown was a proactive measure by the caretaker Punjab government to address the persistent smog issue, which had been adversely affecting the respiratory health of the residents.
Despite the efforts to mitigate air pollution through the smart lockdown, the smog density in Lahore increased on Tuesday compared to the previous day.
The air quality index (AQI) for Lahore surged to 413 at midday, up from 280 in the morning, temporarily making it the most polluted city in the world. Karachi ranked third with an AQI of 222.
Lahore remains shrouded in smog:
In response to the escalating smog crisis, the caretaker Punjab government established a working group, comprising representatives from federal and provincial departments, as well as the military.
The primary objective of this group is to execute an artificial rain project in Lahore. The decision to form the working group was made during a meeting at the Civil Secretariat, chaired by Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman.
During the meeting, various projects aimed at artificial rain and the installation of towers to combat smog in Lahore were reviewed.
Administrative secretaries from departments such as environment protection, agriculture, and finance, along with other relevant officers, were present.
In a bid to explore additional solutions, the caretaker Punjab government is contemplating seeking assistance from China to tackle the smog issue.
It has been reported that China successfully reduced smog by implementing measures such as a two-day weekly restriction on half of the vehicles and the closure of coal-fired power plants, resulting in a significant 40 percent decrease in smog levels.
