Pakistan’s second-largest city, Lahore recorded a staggering Air Quality Index (AQI) of 1900 near the Pakistan-India border . This highest level of pollution reading prompted the authorities to take immediate emergency measures.  

According to data released by the provincial government & Swiss group IQAir, Lahore topped the real-time global list of the most polluted cities on Sunday. This record-breaking pollution can pose significant health risks for the residents, and raise alarm throughout the region.

Given the hazardous air pollution, the Lahore administration has issued work-from-home mandates while declaring the closure of primary schools in several cities.

While speaking at a press conference, senior Punjab minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said due to a severe blanket of smog engulfing the city, all primary schools are directed to stay closed for one week. Directives have also been issued to parents to ensure their kids wear masks.

The Govt. has also urged the citizens to stay indoors, close doors and windows, and avoid any unnecessary travel, reports added. Meanwhile, 50 % of the office employees have been asked to resume work from home to reduce emissions from vehicles.

Additionally, the government has also banned three-wheeled rickshaws and stopped construction work in certain areas.

Describing the situation as ‘unexpected’, Aurangzeb attributed the drop in air quality to winds carrying pollution from India. She said that the situation cannot be solved without talks with neighbouring India.