The air quality in Lahore has reached alarming levels, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) nearing the 700 mark on Sunday, according to global monitoring sites, as reported by ARY News. The overall AQI was recorded at 690, placing Lahore at the top of the world’s most polluted cities list.
Due to the hazardous air quality, health authorities have issued warnings, urging citizens to take immediate precautions. Residents are experiencing a surge in respiratory issues, including coughs, viral flu, and sore throats. To mitigate health risks, experts recommend wearing masks and goggles, avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities, and taking protective measures.
According to ARY News, the AQI report’s health recommendation advises Lahore’s residents to avoid outdoor exercise, keep windows closed to prevent polluted air from entering, wear masks outside, and use air purifiers for cleaner indoor air.
During winter, the air becomes denser, causing harmful particles to settle lower in the atmosphere, which increases pollution levels. This layer of pollutants, including large amounts of carbon and smoke, can form over areas. Pollution sources include burning crop remnants, factory emissions, and burning coal, garbage, oil, or tires. This pollution intensifies at the onset of winter and remains until the season ends, experts noted.
Concerns are mounting about the long-term impact of this persistent air pollution on the city’s inhabitants.
