Despite efforts by the Punjab government to curb pollution from brick kilns and smoke-emitting vehicles, Lahore’s air quality remains extremely poor.
With the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 231 on Saturday, the city ranked as the second most polluted in the world, according to 24NewsHD TV. New Delhi topped the global list, recording an alarming AQI of 437.
Large parts of Lahore remained covered in smog, resulting in low visibility on major roads. The day began with a minimum temperature of 11°C, while the maximum was expected to reach 25°C. The Met Office predicted cold and dry weather for the next 24 hours.
Kasur also faced severe smog, recording an AQI of 500, making it the most polluted city in Pakistan on Saturday.
Karachi ranked as the world’s fifth most polluted city with an AQI of 201. The port city experienced a chilly morning at 15°C, though daytime temperatures were expected to peak around 32°C.
Winds were blowing from the northeast at 6 km/h, with humidity at 60 percent. The weather department added that no rainfall is expected in Karachi over the coming week.