LAHORE: Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider on Thursday demanded an immediate declaration of a smog emergency in Punjab, expressing sharp criticism of the provincial government’s approach to managing the air pollution crisis.
He emphasized that while Punjab’s government is allied with the federal administration, “it doesn’t mean we keep silence.”
Haider argued that measures like banning barbecues and closing schools and parks are insufficient to control the smog problem. He reiterated his call for a smog emergency, questioning why, despite comprehensive data on air pollution, Lahore has become the world’s most polluted city, with an AQI of 790, while Karachi ranks 10th on the same list.
Pointing to Karachi’s relatively better air quality, he suggested that effective steps had been taken there that are lacking in Lahore. With several cities in Punjab blanketed in thick smog, Haider’s remarks underscored the need for urgent and stronger action to tackle the worsening air quality in the province.
Just a day earlier, it was reported that over 15,000 cases of respiratory and viral infections reported in just 24 hours.
City hospitals, including Mayo Hospital (4,000+ cases), Jinnah Hospital (3,500 cases), Gangaram Hospital (3,000 cases), and Children’s Hospital (2,000+ cases), are overwhelmed with patients suffering from dry cough, breathing difficulties, pneumonia, and chest infections.
Medical experts are particularly concerned about children and individuals with pre-existing conditions. “Special children are severely affected,” said Professor Ashraf Zia, who also warned of an alarming rise in viral diseases, including pneumonia, chest infections, and skin conditions.
In response to the smog crisis, the Punjab Transport Department has introduced strict guidelines to reduce vehicle emissions.
Light transport vehicles emitting smoke will face fines of Rs2,000 for first-time violations and Rs4,000 for repeat offenses. Heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks are prohibited from operating until they meet emission standards. Daily and weekly reports on enforcement actions are being mandated.
The Punjab government has also extended school and college closures to five additional divisions as air pollution worsens. Existing closures in Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad divisions will continue, with officials aiming to mitigate the environmental and health impacts of the crisis.
Authorities have urged residents to take precautions, avoid outdoor activities, and seek medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms.
Earlier on November 10, it was reported that hospitals in Lahore had seen over 35,000 cases in just one week.
The surge in patients suffering from respiratory issues, skin problems, and eye irritation has overwhelmed medical facilities, despite the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle the growing smog.
Hospital sources say the majority of patients are suffering from dry coughs, breathing difficulties, pneumonia, and chest infections, particularly among children. Many others have been affected by severe eye irritation, dry eyes, and various skin diseases. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions and asthma are also facing heightened risks due to the deteriorating air quality.
It may be noted the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of heightened smog levels across several cities in Pakistan during November and December, urging citizens to take precautions to minimize health risks.
The advisory highlights Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Peshawar, Nowshera, and Mardan as the most affected areas, with peak smog levels anticipated during morning and evening hours. The NDMA has recommended wearing masks and avoiding unnecessary travel to mitigate exposure to harmful pollutants.
Air quality in Islamabad also reached alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 268, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safety guidelines. Individuals with respiratory conditions have been advised to take preventive measures.
In Punjab, significant smog and fog conditions are expected in cities including Lahore, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Rahim Yar Khan. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions such as Peshawar, Mardan, and Kohat, and parts of Sindh like Sukkur and Kashmore are also forecasted to experience similar conditions. Balochistan’s hilly areas are likely to face dry and cold weather during the mornings and nights.
The NDMA is closely monitoring air quality and coordinating with authorities to manage the worsening smog situation caused by seasonal weather patterns and high pollution levels.
