Multiple warnings have been issued following reports that residents in Lahore, Pakistan—a city with a population of 14 million—are mostly not wearing masks while outdoors, amidst severe air pollution.
Recently, doctors in Lahore, the capital of Punjab province and the second most populous city in Pakistan, indicated that high levels of air pollution are causing many residents to visit hospitals and private clinics. Local authorities have also warned that a complete lockdown could be enforced if residents do not wear masks and adhere to other guidelines related to dust and environmental pollution.
Lahore remains the most polluted city in the world. (Photo: Freepik).
Warnings have been reiterated as most people in Lahore are seen without masks. Many complain about coughing or experiencing burning sensations in their eyes.
Salman Kazmi, Vice President of the Pakistan Medical Association, stated: “Tens of thousands of patients suffering from respiratory illnesses have been treated at hospitals and clinics in just one week.”
As of the morning of November 6, Lahore was recorded as the most polluted city in the world, with a record Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 1,100—where any index above 300 is considered hazardous to health. Toxic smog has enveloped the city since last month.
Marriyum Aurangzeb, a senior minister in Punjab, has urged everyone to wear masks to avoid a complete lockdown.
The city administration has also banned outdoor cooking without smoke extraction or air filtration systems, as well as the use of motorized carts. Wedding halls are required to close by 10 PM.
The government has stated that it is also exploring methods for artificial rain to combat pollution.
