LAHORE: A thick, hazardous smog has enveloped parts of Pakistan and northern India with the pollution levels being so severe that they are clearly visible in satellite imagery.
NASA images show a massive grey cloud stretching across Pakistan’s Punjab province into India, covering cities like Lahore and New Delhi. This toxic air has forced authorities in Pakistan to shut down schools and public spaces, affecting millions of people.
Here is how smog in Lahore looks from space:
The smog is worsened by winter weather conditions and by a combination of factors including the burning of agricultural waste, coal-fired power plants and heavy traffic.
The cold air traps pollutants close to the ground making the situation even worse. Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) reached an alarming 1,200, far above the hazardous threshold of 300.
In Multan, the concentration of PM2.5, a dangerous pollutant, was more than 110 times the safe level set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The health impact is severe, with hospitals and clinics in Punjab overwhelmed by patients suffering from respiratory issues.
Over 30,000 people have already sought treatment for pollution-related illnesses. Punjab’s Environmental Protection Agency reported a surge in cases of lung and respiratory diseases, particularly in cities like Faisalabad, Multan and Gujranwala.
Punjab authorities, in response, have implemented stricter measures by closing all parks, playground and many offices until November 17.
New restrictions also ban outdoor activities, including sports events and dining in four districts including Lahore. The closures aim to protect the public, especially children who are highly vulnerable to air pollution.
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