Smog Intensity Persists in Lahore as Air Quality Index Crosses 240; City Ranks Most Polluted While Experts Urge Strict Precautions and Mask Usage
LAHORE: Lahore, the provincial capital of Punjab, continues to suffer from high levels of air pollution and smog, and the Air Quality Index (AQI) is reaching alarming heights.
Meteorological department has yet again revealed Lahore as the most polluted city in the world with its AQI reading of more than 240. The city’s weather will continue to be dry and there is no immediate forecast of rain to clear the haze in the atmosphere, weather forecasters said. Health experts have, in turn, strongly urged people to strictly wear facemasks while going outside.
The main points of Lahore’s smog problem and the advice of experts on health.
Stay Indoors: Health experts say citizens should avoid walking around outside during the peak hours of pollution, suggesting people should stay inside as much as possible, particularly those with respiratory diseases.
Air Purifiers at home: Residents should regularly use an air purifier at home to filter out harmful particulate matter and create an environment of clean indoor air; During high pollution periods, residents should keep doors and windows closed and lock them.
Outdoor Exercise Restrictions: Do not participate in jogging and exercise in open areas outside on smoggy days; if it is necessary, jogging and exercise should be done in the interior of buildings in well-ventilated rooms.
For when people need to leave their homes, they should wear N95 or N99 masks that will be able to effectively remove the toxic pollutants during inhalation.
Reduce Vehicular Emissions: Vehicular smoke is a major contributor to urban pollution, therefore residents are advised to use public transport and car pool, with family and friends to reduce traffic on the road and decrease environmental pollution.