Islamabad, Dec 4: Lahore has shown signs of improvement in air quality, with a reduction in smog levels, though other cities like Karachi and Peshawar continue to suffer from severe pollution. Lahore’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) has decreased to 170, but specific areas, such as Pakistan Engineering Services Road and Syed Muratab Ali Road, recorded AQI levels of 179 and 181, respectively. In Karachi and Peshawar, AQI levels were even worse, at 192 and 189.
Health experts have expressed concerns over the adverse effects of high AQI levels, which are linked to an increase in respiratory illnesses like coughs, colds, and fever. They advise people to take precautions by wearing masks and keeping windows and doors closed. The Meteorological Department has forecast dry weather for the next 24 hours, with no rain expected, and temperatures ranging from 10°C to 24°C.
In response to the improvement in smog conditions, the Punjab government has lifted the restrictions on school hours, returning to regular school timings of 8:15 am. These adjustments follow the control of pollution levels, as confirmed by the environment protection department.
