Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) reached alarming heights, nearly hitting a hazardous 700 AQI, as reported by a global monitoring site. The city’s AQI stood at 690, ranking it the most polluted city globally.
Medical experts in Lahore are noting an increase in respiratory ailments such as coughs, viral infections, and sore throats due to the poor air quality. In response, health authorities urge residents to wear masks and goggles, limit outdoor activities, and take other protective measures.
The AQI report recommends avoiding outdoor exercise, keeping windows closed to block polluted air, wearing masks outside, and using air purifiers to maintain indoor air quality.
Compared to summer, winter air becomes denser, causing pollutants like carbon and smoke to settle closer to the ground, contributing to severe pollution.
Experts explain that this seasonal phenomenon begins with winter’s onset and persists throughout the season. They attribute much pollution to burning crop remnants, coal, garbage, oil, and tyres, which release significant amounts of smoke into the air.
