LAHORE: Lahore has once again been ranked the most polluted major city in the world, according to data from Swiss air quality monitor IQAir, as the Punjab government steps up its campaign against crop residue burning — a major contributor to the province’s worsening smog crisis.
At around 1:30 p.m., Lahore recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 196, placing it in the “unhealthy” category and surpassing New Delhi (192) and Beijing (172). Karachi also featured in the top 10, ranking as the world’s seventh most polluted city.
Punjab authorities announced strict measures to tackle the smog, which typically intensifies from November to January. Officials said vehicles without green stickers — certifying compliance with emission standards — will be seized from November 15 onward. Only vehicles meeting the environmental criteria will be allowed to operate.
“In line with the Chief Minister’s directions, action is being taken against farmers involved in stubble burning,” the provincial administration said in a statement. So far, 27 cases have been registered, and fines worth Rs405,000 have been imposed in districts such as Mandi Bahauddin and Hafizabad.
Smog, a recurring problem across eastern Punjab, stems from a mix of factors including vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and seasonal burning of crop residue. The resulting poor air quality poses serious health risks — from sore throats and eye irritation to respiratory illnesses and heart disease. Long-term exposure can also lead to stroke and lung cancer, with children being particularly vulnerable.
To combat the crisis, Lahore — a city of nearly 14 million residents — has begun deploying anti-smog guns that spray a fine mist along major roads to help reduce airborne dust and pollutants.
Officials said the measures are part of a broader effort to curb pollution and ensure cleaner air during the peak smog months ahead.
