Lahore pollution levels are hitting dangerous records and making life hard for everyone
Lahore is a vibrant city in Pakistan. But now it is known for a different reason. It is one of the most polluted cities on Earth. The city recently reached alarming pollution levels. Air quality often crosses hazardous thresholds. For residents, it is not just a number. It is a real struggle to breathe every day. Pollution masks are now very common. Just like umbrellas on rainy days. Parks are covered in smog. Outdoor activities are risky for health. Pollution has risen due to vehicle emissions, crop burning, and factories. It is a grim reality for Lahore.
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The numbers are shocking. Recent Air Quality Index (AQI) readings are above 300. Anything above 300 is hazardous. Experts warn that this kind of exposure is dangerous. It especially affects elderly people, children, and those with respiratory problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns about PM2.5. It is fine particulate matter. It gets deep into lungs and blood. This leads to asthma, COPD, and heart disease.
Why is Lahore’s air so bad? The city is growing very fast. More vehicles on the road are making it worse. Diesel trucks, cars, and motorbikes do not have good emission controls. They are releasing more pollutants. Many factories do not follow environmental rules. Farmers also burn crops in Punjab. All these factors combine and create smog. Every winter, the smog layer becomes thicker. This makes it even harder to breathe.
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Experts think policies and public awareness are key. Dr. Asad Rahman, an environmental scientist, says reducing emissions is important. We need cleaner technology and standards for vehicle emissions. Public transport should be encouraged. The government has tried to curb smog. They are stopping crop burning and promoting electric vehicles. But implementation is weak. Strict enforcement is needed to make a real difference.
People in Lahore can also help. Small actions can make a difference. Try to avoid outdoor activities when pollution is high. Wear N95 masks. Support clean-air projects. But overall, it needs a team effort. Government and people need to work together. Clean air is a basic right. Every effort matters to make Lahore’s air clean again.
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References
- AP News. Pakistan Lahore Record Pollution. Associated Press, 2023.
- World Health Organization. Air Quality and Health. World Health Organization, 2023.
- Rahman, Dr. Asad. The Environmental Crisis in Lahore. Environmental Research Journal, 2023.
- Government of Punjab. Initiatives to Reduce Smog in Lahore. Government of Punjab, 2023.
