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| Thick smog covers city as air quality reaches hazardous levels in Punjab. |
Date: October 30, 2025
By: Top Trendly News
Air pollution worsens across Punjab
Smog levels have increased sharply across many cities in Punjab, Pakistan, making the air extremely harmful to breathe. According to recent air quality reports, the cities of Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, and Multan are facing dangerously high levels of air pollution, while Lahore remains one of the most polluted cities in the world.
Experts warn that the current level of air pollution and smog in Punjab poses a serious risk to human health, especially for children, the elderly, and people with heart or lung diseases. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors during peak smog hours and wear protective masks if going outside.
Lahore tops the world’s most polluted cities list
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore reached 485, placing it at the top of the list of the world’s most polluted cities once again. This level of pollution is classified as “Hazardous”, meaning that everyone, regardless of health condition, may experience severe health effects.
On the global list, New Delhi, the capital of India, came in second with an AQI of 445. Both South Asian cities have been struggling with increasing smog levels due to vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, and seasonal crop burning.
Record-breaking smog in Faisalabad and Gujranwala
The situation in other parts of Punjab is even more alarming.
Faisalabad’s AQI rose to an extremely dangerous 833, one of the highest in the world.
Gujranwala recorded 764, also in the hazardous category.
Multan recorded 305, which is considered “Very Unhealthy” for the general population.
Experts believe that the combination of industrial emissions, vehicle smoke, and burning of crop residue in nearby rural areas is worsening air pollution across the province.
Air quality in Sialkot also deteriorates
In Sialkot, another major city of Punjab, the air quality also dropped to unhealthy levels. Thick layers of smog have covered roads and buildings, reducing visibility and creating dangerous conditions for drivers.
Local residents report difficulty breathing, eye irritation, and throat discomfort due to the polluted air.
Causes of smog in Punjab
According to the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) Punjab, several factors are contributing to the rise in smog and air pollution:
1. Burning of crop residue by farmers after the harvest season.
2. Industrial pollution from factories that fail to use filters or follow environmental regulations.
3. Vehicle emissions due to old engines and poor fuel quality.
4. Construction dust and open burning of waste in urban areas.
5. Weather conditions, including low wind speed and high humidity, which trap pollutants near the ground.
Government takes action against smog
The Punjab Environment Department has announced strict measures to control smog. Authorities have started anti-smog campaigns across major cities and taken several steps to reduce air pollution.
Some of the recent actions include:
Ban on dry sweeping at public places and major roads to reduce dust.
Ban on using lime (chuna) for cleaning roads.
Fines for factories and brick kilns that are found violating environmental laws.
Monitoring air quality through digital sensors and real-time data systems.
The department has also appealed to citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, use public transport, and plant more trees to help improve the environment.
Health experts warn of serious health effects
Health specialists say that exposure to smog and polluted air can lead to:
Respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis
Eye irritation and sore throat
Headaches and fatigue
Heart problems and reduced lung function
Doctors recommend wearing N95 or KN95 masks, staying indoors, drinking plenty of water, and keeping windows closed during high-smog hours.
Public awareness is the key
Environmental experts believe that long-term solutions require public cooperation. Citizens are encouraged to:
Avoid burning garbage or leaves.
Use eco-friendly vehicles or carpool when possible.
Support government’s green initiatives and tree plantation drives.
Raise awareness about air pollution and its harmful effects.
Until then, Punjab’s major cities will continue to face severe smog challenges every winter season.
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