The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has cautioned that smog will remain the most significant seasonal hazard in the coming months, particularly across Punjab’s industrial and agricultural belt.
The authority has warned that major cities, including Lahore, Faisalabad, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala and Multan, are likely to witness moderate to dense smog episodes from October to December, with Air Quality Index (AQI) levels potentially crossing 400, placing them in the hazardous category.
According to NDMA, smog intensity is expected to increase in November and December due to temperature inversion, calm wind conditions and high humidity, combined with emissions from industry, transport and crop residue burning.
Urban centers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly parts of Peshawar Valley, may also experience low to moderate smog conditions during the same period.
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The authority has called for strict enforcement of emission controls, monitoring of industrial output and action against stubble burning. It has also stressed the need for public awareness campaigns to minimize health risks and reduce disruptions to daily life and transport.
