A heavy, toxic smog has blanketed major cities in eastern Pakistan and northern India, creating a severe air pollution crisis that is visible even from space. NASA satellite imagery recently revealed a dense, grey haze covering the region, with major urban centers like Lahore in Pakistan and New Delhi in India particularly affected. Both cities, known for their high populations and significant industrial activity, have seen unprecedented levels of air pollution, with Lahore reaching record-breaking Air Quality Index (AQI) numbers this month.
Lahore’s Alarming Pollution Levels
In Lahore, a city of over 14 million people, pollution levels have skyrocketed to dangerous heights. According to Swiss air quality technology company IQAir, Lahore’s AQI reached a staggering 1165, far above the safe limit of 50, and well into hazardous territory. In comparison, New Delhi’s AQI hovered around 350, still extremely harmful but notably lower than Lahore’s unprecedented levels.
The severe pollution in Lahore has led authorities to implement strict emergency measures. Schools have been closed until at least November 17 to protect children from the dangerous air, and public spaces like parks and zoos have been shut down. Meanwhile, in Multan, another major city located about 350 kilometers from Lahore, AQI readings spiked as high as 2,000. Authorities in the area have banned access to outdoor recreational spaces and restricted high-emission activities like tuk-tuks and unfiltered barbecue restaurants. In a more comprehensive response, Punjab province has set up a “smog war room” where personnel from multiple departments coordinate efforts to tackle pollution sources such as agricultural stubble burning and traffic emissions.
Root Causes of the Toxic Smog
The smog crisis in Lahore and northern India is primarily driven by a mix of industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and agricultural stubble burning. This mix is especially harmful during the winter months when colder temperatures and minimal wind create conditions that trap pollutants in the lower atmosphere, forming a dense, toxic haze that settles over the area.
The practice of burning crop stubble is a major contributor to the smog. Farmers in the region often burn residual straw after harvesting, releasing fine particulate matter known as PM2.5 into the air. PM2.5, a pollutant linked to fossil fuel combustion, dust storms, and wildfires, is particularly dangerous as it can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing significant health risks.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued warnings about the severe health impacts of exposure to high levels of air pollution. Long-term exposure can lead to strokes, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory issues, especially for children, infants, and the elderly. In Lahore, PM2.5 concentrations have surged, with readings reaching up to 947 micrograms per cubic meter in Multan—189 times the WHO’s recommended safe limit. At night, AQI levels in Multan exceeded 980, more than triple the hazardous threshold of 300, marking some of the worst pollution levels the region has seen.
The Health Impact of Lahore’s Hazardous Air Quality
Lahore’s air quality has remained dangerously high, with AQI readings surpassing 600, although recent days have seen slight improvement from earlier peaks of nearly 1,900. The impact of this pollution is particularly severe for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The fine particulate matter PM2.5 is especially harmful, as it can aggravate conditions like asthma, chronic lung disease, and cardiovascular issues. Additionally, studies have shown links between high PM2.5 exposure and cognitive impairments in children, further heightening concerns.
To mitigate the impact of this air quality crisis, the government has taken substantial actions. Schools and universities have been temporarily shut down to keep children safe, and public health alerts have been issued for those already suffering from respiratory and heart-related ailments. In an effort to curb emissions, certain industries have been ordered to reduce operations, and further restrictions on traffic emissions have been proposed.
A Long-Term Challenge for the Region
The current smog crisis highlights the ongoing challenge of air pollution in South Asia, where industrial development and population growth have contributed to persistent environmental issues. As Lahore, New Delhi, and other cities in the region struggle to combat pollution, experts stress the importance of long-term strategies to reduce industrial emissions, control stubble burning, and promote cleaner transportation options.
While temporary solutions like school closures and traffic restrictions provide some immediate relief, environmental specialists and public health officials emphasize the need for systemic changes to address the root causes of pollution. This includes improved emissions standards, better waste management practices in agriculture, and investment in clean energy sources. Without these measures, the smog crisis is likely to remain a recurring problem, affecting millions of residents and posing serious health risks to the population.
