Air pollution in Pakistan is touching new heights, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) witnessing massive deterioration in cities such as Multan and Lahore in the country’s Punjab province, recording AQI of over 1,900.
On Friday, Multan ended up becoming the most polluted city in the world on Friday, recording an AQI of 2100, with no relief in sight and the helplessness of authorities in combatting the pollution.
Authorities have ordered parks, museums and schools across Punjab to remain closed till November 17, as a measure to tackle the situation.
The PM 2.5 (particulate matter) pollutants were earlier recorded at 382.2, which was 76.4 times higher than the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) annual air quality guideline value.
In addition to the severe toxification of the air that can cause major health problems, the thick blanket of dust choking Punjab has also affected transportation, blocking major roads, expressways, motorways, and grounding train schedules.
In Lahore, the smog cover has led to widespread road closures due to poor visibility, which resulted in multiple accidents. Over nine people were injured in a road accident near Kalashah Kako on GT Road, Mureed K when a van crashed into a truck due to low visibility.
Furthermore, fatal accidents have been reported in the districts of other provinces such as Sindh and KPK, as the smog continues to envelop the country.
In response, government authorities have closed parts of the motorway network and officials have warned drivers to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly after dark, urging them to travel between 10 am and 6 pm when fog conditions are less severe. Drivers have been advised to use fog lights and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to ensure safety, reported the Express Tribune.
