LAHORE, OCT 24 (APP/DNA): The provincial capital Lahore once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities on Friday as air pollution had increased to dangerous levels.
The overall air quality index in the city was recorded at 362.
According to the Meteorological Department, the pollution rate was recorded at 690 in Shalimar, 611 in Shadman. Similarly, Muratab Ali Road was 609, Iqbal Town was 599, Lower Mall was 540, Civil Secretariat was 518, while FC College was 480 and Model Town was 455.
On the other hand, smog is likely to increase further in the coming days.
According to the Meteorological Department (PMD) report, smog levels are expected to increase in the country in the coming days, dry weather conditions are conducive to smog.
The PMD report said, a thick layer of smog is likely to cover areas of eastern Punjab, and smog may increase to an alarming extent in big cities.
The report states that industrial pollution and vehicle exhaust cause smog, which is likely to increase respiratory diseases.
Meteorological Department said, children, the elderly and the sick will be more affected by smog, and there is a risk of impaired vision and an increase in accidents due to polluted air.
Now it remains to be seen what impact the increasing smog will have on educational activities, however, health experts have appealed to citizens to be careful.
Meanwhile, experts have warned that exposure to such high pollution levels can lead to severe health issues, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and even premature death.
Both outdoor and indoor air pollution are linked to a wide range of harmful health outcomes, affecting lung development, cognitive abilities, and life expectancy.
Additionally, experts noted that due to low morning temperatures, polluted particles remain suspended in the air for extended periods. To counter this, anti-smog guns will be deployed in areas with the highest pollution levels.
