Lahore Sees Significant Reduction in Smog After Much Awaited Rain

LAHORE: In a positive development for Lahore, the city experienced a significant decrease in smog levels due to the timely arrival of rainfall.

Ranked fifth among the world’s most polluted cities, Lahore saw a notable improvement in its overall Air Quality Index (AQI), declining from a concerning 278 to a more favorable 167.

Addressing the escalating smog issue, the Lahore High Court mandated the early closure of markets in the city.

The much-needed rain not only contributed to smog reduction but also brought a noticeable decrease in temperatures, offering relief from the prevailing cold.

Following the rain, the air quality showed improvement as subsequent winds dispersed the smog that had shrouded the city in the past fortnight, providing relief to residents from the associated health risks.

Previously: Lockdown in Punjab Extended Due To Worsening City Smog

Today, the city recorded a maximum temperature of 21 degrees Celsius. According to the latest forecast from the Meteorological Department, intermittent rain is expected to continue throughout the day in Lahore.

This positive development brings hope for enhanced air quality and a more comfortable environment for the city’s residents.

The relief comes after two weeks of Lahore being among the world’s most polluted cities, with worsening AQI readings. During this period, hospitals witnessed an influx of patients with chest and eye infections, skin diseases, coughs, and other health problems.

In response, the Punjab government took measures, including the formation of a monitoring committee and actions against factories, brick kilns, and unfit vehicles, before implementing a partial lockdown.

The government also involved public sector universities and colleges in an anti-smog campaign, advising them to organize seminars and other programs to raise awareness about the issue.