Punjab is facing an air pollution crisis, with Lahore and Multan experiencing dangerously high smog levels that threaten public health and disrupt daily life. In response, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has called for decisive action, criticizing the government’s reliance on temporary fixes to address this ongoing crisis.
The Smog Crisis: Why Are Pollution Levels So High?
Air quality in Lahore and Multan has reached some of the worst levels globally, making breathing unsafe for residents. The Air Quality Index (AQI), a scale measuring air safety, has peaked at an alarming 970 in Lahore, and Multan reached an unprecedented 1,914 in certain areas, far exceeding safe limits. These readings place both cities among the most polluted worldwide, with smog affecting visibility, health, and daily life.
Hospitals are reporting a surge in patients with respiratory problems, particularly children, the elderly, and people with chronic conditions. Health experts warn that the current AQI levels pose severe risks, with symptoms including difficulty breathing, eye irritation, and increased asthma attacks.
Temporary Government Measures to Combat Smog
To manage the immediate crisis, the government has introduced a series of short-term actions aimed at reducing exposure to polluted air:
- School Closures: All public and private schools up to 12th grade in affected areas are closed until November 17 to protect students from the harmful effects of the smog.
- Public Venues Closed: Parks, playgrounds, zoos, museums, and historic sites—including the Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens—are shut down to reduce outdoor activity.
- Green Lockdowns and Traffic Restrictions: “Green lockdowns” in high-traffic areas aim to cut down emissions, while heavy vehicle movement is restricted in smog-hit zones.
- Market Closures: Markets are required to close by 8 p.m. daily, limiting pollution from evening commercial activities.
Despite these measures, PPP Punjab Chapter General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza argues that these are only temporary “band-aid” solutions that fail to address the root causes of the smog crisis.
PPP’s Call for Long-Term Solutions
The PPP is demanding that the government implement sustainable, long-term solutions to tackle the ongoing pollution problem. Syed Hassan Murtaza emphasized that actions like shutting down schools or highways aren’t enough to provide lasting relief. Instead, he proposes:
- Cross-Border Cooperation: Murtaza questioned why diplomatic efforts have stalled, particularly on the issue of crop burning in Indian Punjab, which adds to the pollution in Pakistan’s border areas.
- Cleaner Farming Practices: PPP supports programs like distributing “super seeder” machines, which allow farmers to prepare land without burning crop residues, a major contributor to smog.
- Investments in Clean Energy: Environmental experts and the PPP believe that shifting to clean, renewable energy sources could significantly reduce pollution, addressing the root causes of the smog crisis.
Murtaza warned that public frustration is mounting. “Let the people breathe, or the masses will shorten the breath of the government,” he said, stressing the urgency of the crisis.
Smog’s Impact on Daily Life: Flight Disruptions and Health Risks
The smog has also affected travel, causing flight delays and diversions due to reduced visibility. Recently, a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Doha was diverted to Islamabad, and another flight scheduled for Dubai was delayed by two hours. Passengers are advised to check flight statuses before leaving for the airport, as visibility remains low due to dense smog.
In Multan, AQI levels topped 1,826 at the WWF-Pakistan Office, while other areas, including Shamsabad Colony and Multan Cantonment, reported AQI readings above 1,300. In Lahore, key locations also recorded dangerous pollution levels:
- Syed Maratib Ali Road: 844
- US Consulate in Lahore: 1,248
- Askari-10: 1,206
- Pakistan Engineering Services: 1,171
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
As smog levels remain dangerously high, there are steps you can take to minimize health risks:
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid going outside in the early mornings when smog levels are typically the highest.
- Wear Masks: Use protective masks if you need to go outside, as they can help reduce exposure to polluted air.
- Improve Indoor Air Quality: Use air purifiers if possible, and keep windows closed to prevent smog from entering your home.
Government’s Smog Steering Committee Promises Further Actions
The government recently formed a Smog Steering Committee, led by Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, to address the crisis. The committee has directed the Punjab Environment Protection and Climate Change Department (EPCCD) to explore cloud seeding in Multan as a possible measure. Additionally, the committee announced:
- Reduced Office Capacity: Offices in Punjab will operate at 50% capacity to decrease vehicle traffic.
- Night Surveillance of Sand Trolleys: EPA and traffic squads will monitor and fine polluting vehicles at night.
- Mask Distribution Campaign: Masks are being distributed in public areas, with mosque announcements urging citizens to adopt protective measures.
Urgent Action Needed for Cleaner Air
As pollution levels in Lahore and Multan continue to rise, both the PPP and the public are urging the government to take more comprehensive, sustainable actions to control the smog crisis. Experts agree that reducing smog at its source—by tackling emissions from vehicles, industries, and crop burning—is essential for creating lasting change. The people of Punjab deserve cleaner air and a healthier future, and the time for real action is now.
