Lahore’s smog has led the city to hold the unfortunate title of Pakistan’s most polluted city, with recent air quality readings reaching hazardous levels. The situation has escalated to the point where the government has closed primary schools temporarily, and authorities are now considering extending closures to high schools and colleges.
In light of the worsening smog, Lahore’s administration has proposed a two-day closure for educational institutions on Fridays and Saturdays, a strategy similar to last year’s. Commissioner Lahore and the Secretary of Environment presented these recommendations to Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, who will make the final decision based on the smog’s health impacts.
This past Sunday, primary schools across Lahore were shut down as air quality levels soared over 1,000 on the Air Quality Index (AQI). Punjab’s education authorities suspended classes for students up to fifth grade, while older students continue in-person attendance. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air was measured at nearly 30 times higher than levels deemed safe by the World Health Organization, heightening health risks for residents.
Despite ongoing efforts to curb pollution, the city’s AQI exceeded 500 on Monday. In response, emergency measures have been implemented, including work-from-home requirements for 50% of office staff. Over the weekend, Lahore’s pollution level shockingly reached 1,900, putting it among the most polluted urban areas globally. Officials have advised residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks for protection against the severe smog.
As authorities weigh further actions, residents await official decisions that aim to protect public health amid one of Lahore’s worst air quality crises to date.
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