Punjab government has issued an emergency alert for residents of Lahore due to hazardous air quality caused by smog from Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh. Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has urged citizens to take precautions by wearing masks and keeping windows and doors closed as strong winds bring in pollution from neighboring regions. Minister Aurangzeb reported that as the winds subsided yesterday, Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) dramatically improved from 800 to 191. However, she emphasized that children and individuals with heart and respiratory conditions should avoid outdoor exposure. The environment minister noted that the burning of crop residues in Indian regions has contributed to the increased pollution levels.

She reiterated that the strong winds significantly affect Lahore's air quality, exacerbating the already critical situation. In response to the worsening conditions, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has also appealed to every citizen to wear masks. To safeguard children, school timings have been adjusted to 8:45 AM. Parents and school management are urged to adhere to safety measures, ensuring that children wear masks when attending school. Aurangzeb stressed that it is essential for the health of young students, advising parents not to send their children to school without proper protection. Residents are encouraged to report any environmental pollution violations to Citizen 1373 to help combat the rising pollution levels in the region.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan