As winter sets in, air pollution has once again gripped major cities across Punjab, with Lahore topping the list of the most polluted cities in the world on Tuesday.

According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), Lahore recorded an alarming 339 reading of hazardous particulate matter, categorizing the air quality as “extremely unhealthy.” The thick smog blanketing the city has reduced visibility and raised serious health concerns for residents.

Punjab’s air quality crisis deepens

The situation is no better in other parts of the province. Faisalabad’s AQI surged to 692, marking one of the worst readings in recent memory. Similarly, Kasur (614), Patoki (531), Multan (479), and Sheikhupura (457) reported dangerously high levels of air pollution.

Health experts have urged citizens to wear masks and minimize outdoor exposure, warning that prolonged inhalation of polluted air could lead to respiratory infections, heart complications, and long-term lung damage.

Annual smog cycle returns

Punjab faces this environmental crisis almost every winter, driven by a combination of vehicular emissions, industrial smoke, and crop residue burning. The cooler temperatures and stagnant air trap pollutants closer to the ground, intensifying the smog.

Last year, the province experienced severe smog conditions that led to school closures and restricted business hours. Despite multiple government crackdowns, including anti-smog squads and temporary factory shutdowns, pollution levels remain critically high.

Experts say that the current readings are more than 80 times higher than the World Health Organization’s safe limit for particulate matter, making the air in Lahore and surrounding cities among the most toxic globally.

Authorities urged to act swiftly

Environmental activists are calling for stricter enforcement of emission laws and better urban planning to mitigate the crisis. “Short-term measures like school closures aren’t enough. Punjab needs structural reforms — cleaner transport, regulated industry, and sustainable agriculture practices,” said an environmental policy analyst.

Meanwhile, authorities have reissued advisories urging citizens to use masks, avoid unnecessary travel, and use air purifiers indoors. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned that dense smog is likely to persist throughout November and early December unless weather conditions improve.