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       LAHORE: Despite different measures being taken by the Punjab government, the smog crisis in the provincial capital is not showing any signs of abating as the city continued to grapple with hazardous air quality levels on Monday.

       Once renowned as the “city of gardens,” Lahore now holds the grim distinction of being the most polluted city in the world, with the latest air quality index (AQI) readings soaring to 307 points between 8am and 9am.

       The overall air pollution index in Lahore has been recorded at a staggering 277, with specific areas such as DHA Phase-5, the vicinity of the US Consulate, and Gulberg showing AQI levels of 459, 433, and 416, respectively.

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       The smog, caused by vehicle and industrial emissions, crop residue burning, and adverse weather conditions, poses a severe health risk to residents.

       Curbs on vehicular and industrial emissions being enforced across Punjab

       The hospitals in the city have been witnessing a surge in the patients suffering from respiratory issues, prompting health experts to warn of the long-term impacts of smog on the vulnerable populations, particularly children and the elderly.

       The Meteorological Department sees no immediate chances of rain to alleviate the air pollution, with temperatures ranging between a minimum of 13 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 24C.

       Weather statistics show a wind speed of 6 km/h and humidity levels reaching up to 81 per cent.

       In a bid to combat the smog, the Punjab government has cancelled route permits for vehicles with faulty engines, emitting excessive smoke.

       The transport department and police have been instructed to prevent such vehicles from operating on the roads.

       Additionally, a ban has been imposed on the entry of trucks, buses, and heavy vehicles into Lahore on Fridays and Sundays to reduce smoke, dust, and dirt.

       The anti-smog campaign being run by environment department has resulted in demolition of six brick kilns in Lodhran, Okara, Vehari, and Sargodha, as well as the sealing of three industrial units — one steel rolling mill, one textile unit, and one rice mill.

       Meanwhile, during inspections of over a 1,000 vehicles, 144 with faulty engines and excessive emissions were impounded.

       Furthermore, 64 sand trolleys without tarpaulins and those not complying with anti-smog rules have been barred from plying on roads.

       The government’s efforts to mitigate smog include water sprinkling on roads, along with inspections of commercial generators and open barbecue outlets, while notices were issued to violators.

       Senior Minister Marrium Aurangzeb sees improvements due to the anti-smog measures.

       “Comprehensive measures and solid policies will improve the environmental future of the province,” says Ms Aurangzeb.

       She emphasises that these actions will lay the foundation for the elimination of smog in eight to ten years, declaring the fight against air pollution as a fight to protect citizens’ lives.

       “A healthy and safe environment can only be provided with the cooperation of every citizen,” she adds.

       Published in Dawn, December 3rd, 2024