Pakistan: Punjab tries out another method to combat serious air pollution levels

Punjab – the second-largest province of Pakistan by land area and the largest by population – has set up a ‘smog war room’ to tackle serious air pollution levels, as poor air quality in Lahore pushed the capital to the top of the rankings as the most polluted city globally.

Lahore’s pollution index score reached an alarming 1165 recently. India’s Delhi recorded a score of 299 and came second on the list. Daily sessions are going to analyse data and forecasts to brief stakeholders on efforts to fight pollution, and issue daily advisories.

Lahore’s index score for November 6 fell short of the unprecedented 1900 seen recently. That score conveniently exceeded to recommended levels by more than 120 times, prompting the closure of primary schools across the city.

Lahore taking major steps to fight air pollution

Lahore is the second-largest city in Pakistan. The place has implemented a closure of schools until Saturday, reduced staff strength in both public and private offices, and a ban on the entry of heavy vehicles on Friday and Saturday nights for three months.

Due to serious environmental issues, Lahore authorities have been taking significant steps. But the ban on the entry of heavy vehicles does not apply to passenger buses or vehicles transporting fuel, medicines, food items and medical supplies.

Breathing toxic air for a prolonged period can cause catastrophic health consequences. Children are more susceptible to the effects of air pollution as they tend to have less developed lungs and breathe more rapidly.