The smog situation in Punjab, especially in Multan and major cities spiked to worst-ever levels in the country’s history. On Friday morning, Multan’s Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded 2000. The provincial government is on high alert and working to lower pollution levels through various measures.
In response to the hazardous air quality, parks and museums have been closed until November 17. According to IQAir, Multan’s AQI reached 2,135 between 8 AM and 9 AM, with PM2.5 concentration at 947 micrograms per cubic meter — far above the safe levels set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
By 10 PM, Multan’s AQI had reached 980, and monitoring sites in the city reported even higher levels, including 2,316 in WWF-Pakistan Office, 1,635 in Shamsabad Colony, and 1,527 in Multan Cantonment.
Surrounding areas like Bahawalpur, Muzaffargarh, and Khanewal are facing similar conditions, leading to reduced visibility on roads. Due to the dangerous air quality, Nishtar Hospital in Multan has set up two smog counters in the OPD and Emergency wards.
On Friday, Deputy Commissioner Waseem Hamid Sindhu announced a ‘smart lockdown’ in Multan. Markets are now required to close by 8 PM, and the traffic police are enforcing strict rules against smoke-emitting vehicles. The city has also directed a crackdown on stubble and waste burning, as well as on brick kilns without zigzag technology.
Despite these measures, residents have reported that children are still playing outdoors, with some experiencing sore throats due to the polluted air.
Meanwhile, Lahore’s AQI crossed 1,000 last night night, making it one of the most polluted cities globally.
A complete ban has been imposed on public access to parks, zoos, playgrounds, monuments, museums, and other recreational areas in Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Chiniot, and Jhang. Violators will face penalties under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code for disobeying government orders.
Schools across 18 districts have already been closed due to the hazardous conditions. To combat smog, senior minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced several measures, including covering cargo trucks, advising children to stay indoors, and fining those who disregard the rules.
Additionally, many food stalls and outlets have been shut down for breaching environmental guidelines. Key roads in south and central Punjab have also been closed due to the dense smog affecting visibility and safety.