Punjab Government declare emergency alert as smog levels rise in Lahore
On October 28, the Punjab government issued an emergency alert in Lahore as the smog continues to grow worse every day.
Dawn news revealed that Lahore’s current air index quality (AQI) has marked it as the most polluted city in the world by touching on 708.
Senior Minister for the Government of Punjab Maryam Aurangzeb has urged civilians to wear masks and stay indoors as the smog conditions continue to worsen. She said that strict action was being taken to tackle the worsening air quality as smoke-emitting vehicles would be seized, and no brick kiln would be allowed to operate without zigzag technology. Farmers will be arrested if they are caught burning crop stubble.
How to stay safe during the smog crisis
If you’re someone whose worried about the ongoing environmental hazard and wants to know what tips can you implement to keep yourself and your loved ones safe, we have got you covered. Here are a list of safety measures that will help you keep your health secure during the smog.
- Wear a protective mask
- Do not smoke, or if that isn’t possible then stick to nicotine patches.
- Take regular showers to get rid of any of the dirt or germs you were exposed to after going outside.
- Spend as much time indoors as you can. Seal your windows and doors with tapes or cloth to avoid the toxic air from entering inside.
- Install an air purifier
- Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water and if you’re suffering from heavy coughing or throat ache, then green tea is the best solution.
- Stay informed about the current smog conditions and the emergency alerts issued by the government so your children or elderly family members stay safe.
- Avoid driving out alone and switch to car pooling or travelling via bus.
Academics and journalists have described the situation in Lahore as catastrophic as smog levels continue to reach abysmal levels, urging for the government to take strict action.
Lahore is witnessing an ecological apocalypse. The smog makes it unfit for human survival. Our cities only work for land mafias, car/oil companies & corrupt bureaucrats. Only those who can afford air-purifiers can survive. Privatization of clean air! Absolutely criminal & insane!
— Ammar Ali Jan (@ammaralijan) October 28, 2024
AQI in Lahore today. #smog pic.twitter.com/q0P59fPCxi
— Benazir Shah (@Benazir_Shah) October 28, 2024
The smog situation in Lahore is horrific. It is impossible to breathe in open spaces. The smog inhaled is causing nausea, sickness.
What kind of smog-free Punjab is this 😭😭😭
— Aima Khosa (@aimaMK) October 28, 2024
The #Smog in #Lahore has not only set foot, it has started to mercilessly devour, engulf. https://t.co/M9iiK2A2XY
— Faraz Saeed 🇵🇰 (@farazsaeed15) October 30, 2024
