LAHORE: Persistent air pollution in Lahore has caused a significant increase in health problems, with hospitals in the city reporting 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.
Mayo Hospital has reported more than 9,000 cases in the past week, while Jinnah Hospital recorded around 7,000 patients. Gangaram Hospital registered over 6,000 cases, and Services Hospital and General Hospital each reported approximately 5,000 patients.
In response to the rising health crisis, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has called for an emergency to be declared in the province. He noted that air pollution had spiraled out of control, with large numbers of people seeking urgent medical treatment.
The Governor criticized ineffective measures like the closure of schools, colleges, and amusement parks, and emphasized that traders were opposing the early closure of markets at 8 pm. He urged all institutions to work together to combat the worsening smog and protect public health.
