Islamabad, Jan 4: Lahore continues to grapple with severe air pollution, maintaining its position as the most polluted city in the world. The air quality index (AQI) reached an alarming 665 at 2pm, with certain areas registering even higher levels of pollution, such as Syed Maratib Ali Road at 1165, Valencia Town at 908, and CERB Office at 906. Other parts of the city, including Johar Town and MM Alam Road, also reported AQI readings above 700, signaling critical pollution levels.
The maximum temperature in Lahore was recorded at 17°C, with a forecasted range between 9°C to 18°C. The city’s humidity stood at 71%, and the wind speed was measured at 3 km per hour. Despite these conditions, the Department of Environmental Protection has forecasted rain across various cities of Punjab starting from January 6, which may help alleviate some of the air pollution.
Over the past 10 months, the Department of Environmental Protection has been actively tackling the issue of smog and air pollution in the province. A series of stringent actions have been taken against violators of environmental regulations. The department has conducted inspections at 11,000 brick kilns, issuing over 11,000 notices and sealing or demolishing several kilns. Additionally, 484 factories were sealed for environmental violations, and Rs46 million in fines were imposed. To address fugitive dust, 4,588 sites were inspected, leading to the issuance of 688 notices and sealing of 46 sites.
Vehicle emissions have also been targeted, with 77,166 vehicles fined for excessive smoke emissions, contributing to Rs14 million in penalties. Moreover, waste burning led to 10,465 fines, along with 1,040 cases filed and penalties of Rs23 million. The authorities also confiscated over 1,500 kg of plastic bags to enforce environmental regulations.
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government’s commitment to environmental protection, emphasizing that no leniency will be shown in the fight against smog and air pollution. She reiterated that providing a clean and healthy environment remains a top priority for the government.
