independent.co.uk
Lahore Chokes on Record Air Pollution
Record air pollution in Lahore, Pakistan, is causing a health crisis and prompting authorities to consider a city-wide lockdown.
English
United Kingdom
HealthMiddle EastClimate ChangePollutionAir QualityHealth CrisisLockdownEnvironmental Emergency
Pakistan Medical AssociationPunjab Province Government
Salman KazmiMarriyum Aurangzeb
- How long has this severe air pollution been ongoing?
- The severe smog in Lahore has been ongoing since last month, and officials are exploring methods such as inducing artificial rainfall to alleviate the pollution.
- Who has urged the public to take preventative measures?
- Marriyum Aurangzeb, a senior minister in Punjab province, urged residents to wear face masks to prevent a potential city lockdown due to the severe air pollution.
- What is the current air quality situation in Lahore, Pakistan?
- Lahore, Pakistan is experiencing record-high air pollution, with an air quality index exceeding 1100. This has led to a surge in respiratory illnesses and hospital visits.
- What measures are authorities considering to address the crisis?
- The Pakistani government is considering a city-wide lockdown if residents continue to ignore safety measures like wearing masks. Authorities have already implemented restrictions such as banning barbecuing and motorized rickshaws.
- What are the health effects being observed due to the air pollution?
- Doctors report tens of thousands of patients with respiratory problems in a week, and many citizens are seen without masks despite the hazardous air quality.