Severe Air Pollution in Lahore Forces Schools to Close and Office Workers to Work Remotely

Editor’s Opinion on Unprecedented Air Pollution in Lahore

Key Points

• Terrifying air pollution in Lahore has compelled authorities to shut down all primary schools for a week.
• Approximately half of the office workforce is required to work from home as part of a "green lockdown" strategy.
• Harsh measures include bans on engine-powered rickshaws and barbecuing without proper filters.
• Experts blame the smog largely on the Indian practice of burning crop waste, which is carried into Pakistan by strong winds.
• Provincial government called for talks with India to address the issue.

Unbearable Air Quality

The air quality index in Lahore had skyrocketed to over 1,000 on Saturday, surpassing the WHO’s dangerous benchmark of 300. This unprecedented level of air pollution is attributed to multiple factors, including stubble burning on the Indian side bordering Pakistan. According to the World Health Organization, exposure to such high levels of air pollutants significantly increases the risk of various severe health issues, such as strokes, heart diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory diseases.

Health and Safety Measures

In response to the toxic atmosphere:

• Schools were forced to close for a week as a precautionary measure.
• Marriyum Aurangzeb, Punjab Senior Minister, stressed the need for mandatory masks in schools.
• A 50% remote work directive for office workers is part of the "green lockdown" plan initiated by the authorities.
• Bans on engine-powered rickshaws and vendors engaging in open-air barbecuing without filters were enforced.

Environmental Impact of Stubble Burning

The burning of crop waste, known as stubble, in neighboring India poses a significant challenge for Pakistan. The smog created on the Indian side is carried over by strong winds into Pakistan territory. Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb acknowledged this transboundary issue and urged the government to engage in dialogue with Indian authorities through the foreign office to address the pressing concern.

Measures to Control Smog Levels

Active measures are being taken to mitigate air pollution, including:

• Spraying water in the air by vehicles equipped with pumps.
• Halting construction work in specific areas to reduce dust particles.
• Continuously assessing the situation with a view to reassess school closures by next week.

Concern of Residents and Parents

With fear and anxiety running high among residents, Lilley Mirza, a 42-year-old mother, pleaded for answers, "Last year wasn’t this bad. Somebody needs to tell us what happened. Did a pollution bomb explode somewhere?"

Long-Term Effects

Seasonal variations contribute to the severity of smog—it worsens during winter when cold, dense air traps pollutants ground-level, resulting in hazardous conditions.

Call to Action

Facing such severe air pollution, Lahore citizens are urged to take necessary precautions such as staying indoors, avoiding unnecessary travel, and remaining vigilant about the evolving situation. Joining efforts to voice awareness and call for stringent actions from both local and regional authorities is crucial to mitigate the pollution conundrum.

By taking activepart in environmental conservation initiatives, we can collectively work towards alleviating the distress and ensuring a healthier and safer environment for present and future generations.