Despite all the government efforts, air pollution in Punjab could not be reduced. According to Punjab Environment Department sources, the AQI was recorded in Khanewal at 365 and in Lahore at 407.
The air quality index of the Township area was recorded at 727. The air quality index of the Johar Town area was recorded at 685, the Cantt area at 547, and the Syed Murtabat Ali Road area at 483.
According to global website sources, Lahore is the second most polluted city in the world with an AQI of 368, while Karachi is in sixth place with 209 particulate matter meters. On the other hand, the M-1 Motorway was closed from Peshawar to Rashakai due to heavy fog.
Meanwhile, health experts have instructed citizens to use masks, avoid unnecessary going out, and increase the use of air purifiers in their homes. Environmental experts say that the city’s air is becoming increasingly polluted due to burning crop residues on the Indian side, while traffic pressure and industrial emissions are another reason for the air pollution in the city.
Lahore Police have stepped up their efforts to protect the environment as the provincial capital continues to struggle with severe smog.
The city, known for its industrial activity and high vehicle density, has been facing worsening air quality in recent months, prompting authorities to take stricter measures against pollution.
Capital City Police Officer Bilal Siddique Kamyana directed officials to ensure indiscriminate action against violators and stressed the importance of public participation in reducing pollution. “Citizens must contribute to efforts aimed at eliminating air pollution,” said Kamyana, underlining the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment.
According to a spokesperson for the Lahore Police, a total of 455 suspects have been arrested this year during various anti-smog operations conducted across the city. These arrests were made in connection with violations of environmental laws, reflecting the police’s commitment to systematically tackling all sources of pollution.
The spokesperson highlighted that cases have been registered at multiple police stations throughout the city. A significant portion of the crackdown focused on industrial and commercial activities, which are major contributors to Lahore’s deteriorating air quality. As part of these efforts, 410 individuals were arrested for emitting smoke from factories, shops, and brick kilns, sectors identified as key culprits behind the worsening smog levels.
In addition to industrial offenders, authorities have also taken action against individuals engaged in illegal burning of materials that release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Police detained 22 people for burning tyres, plastic, and shopping bags, while another 23 individuals were arrested for burning crop residues and household waste. These actions are part of a broader campaign to eliminate harmful practices that aggravate air pollution and pose health risks to residents.
CCPO Kamyana stated that operations against all elements contributing to smog are in full swing, with the police providing comprehensive support to relevant government departments responsible for enforcing environmental regulations. He added that Safe City cameras are being actively used to identify pollution hotspots and trace activities that contribute to the city’s declining air quality.