Islamabad, Nov 18: The air quality index (AQI) shows an improvement in smog levels across various towns in Punjab, attributed to artificial rain and a shift in easterly winds, according to government officials.
As of 11 PM on Sunday, Lahore’s AQI stood at 297, while Multan recorded 230. The Meteorological Department credited a north-westerly wind pattern for reducing smog, while Punjab Environment Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb highlighted the positive impact of artificial rain experiments conducted in the Chakwal and Jhelum areas.
In her statement, the minister emphasized that the Detox Punjab campaign contributed to better air quality in Rawalpindi and nearby towns. She noted that ongoing operations aimed to further reduce smog in Lahore. Restrictions, including a ban on diesel-powered heavy vehicles, smoke-emitting transport, and brick kilns, remain in effect.
Lahore AQI
Aurangzeb urged the public to support these efforts by limiting outdoor activities, wearing masks when outside, and taking precautions to improve the environment.
The environment department has issued an updated notification extending restrictions on schools, markets, parks, and museums, with at least 50% of employees working from home until November 24. A ban on fireworks across Punjab has also been imposed until January 31, 2025.
Meanwhile, fog and smog continued disrupting flight schedules.
Airlines canceled two flights and delayed 35 others in Lahore, Sialkot, and Faisalabad. They canceled flight FZ-392 from Faisalabad to Dubai and flight EK-618 from Dubai to Sialkot, while they diverted flight PK-411 from Lahore to Dubai to Islamabad.
Delays included flights XY-317 and XY-318 from Riyadh to Lahore, delayed by seven hours, as well as two Karachi-to-Lahore flights delayed by one to three hours.
PIA delayed flight PK-797 from Lahore to Toronto by seven hours, and airlines reported additional delays for flights from Sharjah, Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai to Sialkot.
The Meteorological Department forecasts predominantly dry and cold weather for the coming week, with smog and fog persisting over the plains of Punjab.
