Islamabad, Nov 8: 12-Point Anti-Smog Advisory Issued for Islamabad and Rawalpindi to Combat Worsening Air Quality. As the air quality index (AQI) in Rawalpindi and Islamabad reached 200, the district administrations, along with health, education, and environmental departments, issued a comprehensive 12-point anti-smog advisory for citizens. The guidelines aim to reduce exposure to harmful air pollution and emphasize several precautionary measures for public safety, including the use of masks and maintaining hygiene.
Citizens are advised to wear masks outdoors, wash hands, faces, and eyes frequently, and wear protective eyewear to prevent irritation from polluted air. To further minimize exposure, households and office staff are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed, while motorcyclists are recommended to wear masks during travel. Additionally, the advisory discourages burning waste, spraying water on standing water, and advises wearing full-sleeved clothing for added protection.
Health officials emphasized the importance of hydration, recommending residents drink 10-12 glasses of water daily, as well as coffee, tea, and soups to support respiratory health amid smog conditions. Motorcyclists should take extra precautions by wearing masks while riding, and both citizens and civil servants should refrain from sweeping dust into the air, which may contribute to particulate pollution.
District Health Authority CEO Dr. Asif Arbab Niazi advised the public to use face masks and goggles, conduct vehicle inspections to control emissions, and recommended factories install air pollution control devices. He emphasized that smog awareness stations are now available in hospitals to offer further guidance. Environmental expert Dr. Azeem Khalid explained that although smog risk is lower in Rawalpindi and Islamabad compared to Lahore, residents should still remain vigilant. Anti-smog measures, including bans on waste burning and penalties for industrial pollution, are ongoing to curb emissions and protect public health in the twin cities.
