A thick blanket of smoke and smog continues to engulf Lahore, now the second most polluted city in the world, just behind New Delhi.

Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) rose to an alarming 510 on Wednesday morning. This severe pollution has led to a rapid increase in cases of respiratory diseases; There has been an increase in the number of patients experiencing breathing difficulties, throat infections and eye irritation in hospitals.

As pollution worsens, Lahore remains Pakistan’s most polluted city, followed by Multan, where the AQI has risen to 425.

Multan’s deteriorating air quality has triggered a rise in respiratory and eye-related diseases, especially affecting children, who are increasingly hospitalized for pneumonia and other respiratory problems. Children’s Hospital in Multan has set up a special “smoke ward” to manage the flow of patients.

highway closures

Dense fog and smoke severely reduced visibility, resulting in the closure of major highways in and around Lahore. M2 from Lahore to Kot Momin, M3 from Lahore to Darkhana, M4 from Pindi Bhattian to Multan and M5 from Rahim Yar Khan to Rohri were closed. Lahore-Sialkot Highway was also closed.

A Motorway Police spokesman urged drivers to be careful, recommending the use of front and rear fog lights, reducing speed and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid accidents.

Authorities ask for caution

With pollution levels consistently dangerous, authorities recommend that citizens limit outdoor activities and take preventive measures, especially for children and the elderly who are at high risk.