Lahore is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis as the Air Quality Index (AQI) has skyrocketed to hazardous levels.
On Thursday morning at 9am, the city's overall AQI reached a critical 790. Areas, such as the Ghazi Road Interchange and its surroundings, recorded alarming AQI levels as high as 1280, followed by Maratib Ali Road with 1107 and Gulberg at 1,039.
A couple of hours later close to noon, the city's overall AQI reached a hazardous 1591. The most polluted area in the city was Gulberg that recorded AQI levels of over 2816, while on Bedian Road it was recorded at 2726. Moreover, in Shadman it was 2441, Johar Town 1774, 1645 at Ghazi Road, 1762 on Ferozepur Road, 1645 in Township, and 1276 in and around Askari 10.
Moreover, the district administration has taken strict action against the businesses flouting the 8pm closure orders. Authorities have sealed 75 shops, a wedding hall and 14 restaurants for not adhering to the ban on outdoor dining.
"We strongly urge residents to minimize outdoor exposure and stay indoors as much as possible until conditions improve," the DC stated.
He further reminded people that there was a ban on outdoor activities till November 17 due to the alarming smog levels in Lahore. This includes a complete ban on outdoor dining in restaurants, he added.
