Lahore remains enveloped in thick smog, retaining the second spot in the global pollution rankings with a poor air quality that poses serious risks to the health of residents. 

The city’s air quality index (AQI) soared past the 300 mark, which is considered “hazardous”, a day after a short respite smog levels went slightly down. The air quality had briefly improved on Sunday, moving out of the “hazardous” category

According to Swiss air quality monitor IQAir, the AQI in the provincial capital reached 485 around 9:15am as persistent smog continues to affect daily life across Punjab. 

In comparison, New Delhi topped the global pollution chart with an AQI of 1,226, indicating a dangerously high level of toxins in the air.

Meanwhile, Karachi is also one of the world’s largest cities grappling with poor air quality. It held the seventh spot with an “unhealthy” AQI of 187.

The smog has led to disruptions across the region, with multiple motorways closed.

The M4 motorway, from Abdul Hakeem to Multan, and the M5 motorway, from Multan to Rahim Yar Khan, have been shut due to low visibility. The Lahore-Sialkot motorway was also temporarily closed, though it has since been reopened from Lahore to Kamonki.

Authorities urge caution as air pollution continues to deteriorate visibility and pose health risks.

Schools to reopen except in Lahore, Multan tomorrow

The government later in the day announced its decision to reopen educational institutions across all districts of Punjab except Lahore and Multan divisions — the two worst smog-hit areas.

Strict measures have been outlined to ensure the safety of students and staff during academic activities.

According to a notification issued by the Environmental Protection Agency, schools will not be allowed to open before 8:45am to manage the situation effectively.

All students, teachers, and school staff are required to wear masks at all times, while outdoor sports and other extracurricular activities remain suspended until further notice, the notification stated.

To address traffic congestion, schools will implement staggered dismissal timings based on class schedules.

School administrations have been directed to ensure compliance with all precautionary measures outlined in the notification.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb attributed the improvement in the air quality of the region to a change in the direction and speed of easterly winds.

Commenting on the government’s decisions, she stated: “Difficult decisions were made to protect lives.”

She emphasised that while children’s education is vital, their health cannot be compromised under any circumstances.

The hazardous conditions owing to persistent smog has prompted calls for action to tackle the ongoing pollution crisis.

Punjab government had declared a health emergency in Lahore and Multan due to toxic smog last week, extending ban on construction, shutting schools and moving universities online.

The country’s most populous province, grapples every winter with smog, but air pollution has worsened in recent years, as a result of cold air trapping dust, low-grade diesel fumes and smoke from illegal stubble burning on fields.

Other parts of South Asia are also dealing with high levels of pollution and Punjab blames neighbouring India for contributing to its hazardous air quality.

New Delhi, the world’s most polluted capital as of today, has tightened restrictions on construction activities and vehicle movements from today to combat worsening air quality.

The Indian government has also moved children to virtual classrooms and asked residents to avoid using coal and wood.