LAHORE: In response to Lahore’s severe air quality crises, where the Air Quality Index (AQI) has soared to 520, authorities have mandated mask-wearing for citizens.
Punjab Chief Minister has directed strict adherence to environmental laws, leading to the grounding of around 2,500 high-emission vehicles, sealing of 469 factories and demolition of brick kilns.
Additionally, 318 FIRs have been filed against those burring straw and crop residues.
Maryam Aurangzeb called for public cooperation in combating pollution, emphasizing that changes in wind patterns from India significantly affect Lahore’s air quality. An emergency traffic plan is being introduced to mitigate smog, and those violating regulations on emissions and burring straw will face arrest.
The Secretary of the Environment Protection Department highlighted the alarming AQI levels caused by polluted air from the east but noted recent community efforts have led to a decrease in waste burning and emissions.
