Air pollution hits critical levels in Punjab cities

Air pollution levels have reached critical levels in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and five major cities in Punjab, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing dangerous thresholds. The provincial government has ordered the closure of brick kilns across Punjab from November 15 to December 15 to mitigate pollution.

Lahore's AQI has crossed 253, with some areas exceeding 419. Nankana Sahib recorded an AQI of 371, which is extremely dangerous, while Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad also reported high pollution levels. Murree, a major tourist destination, has an AQI of 129, and other cities like Gujranwala and Multan also show elevated readings.

Officials said the drone-based system for monitoring smoke emissions has failed to control pollution. The burning of rice crop residues in Nankana Sahib and Gujranwala has contributed to rising pollution levels. The smog season lasts from October to December.

Air pollution is attributed to smoke-emitting vehicles, railway engines, factories, industrial units, and the burning of scrap and garbage. Brick kilns and stone-crushing plants are particularly cited as major contributors. Burning old tyres and plastic to extract black oil is also exacerbating the issue.

Operations against smoke-emitting vehicles, scrap, garbage, tyres, and crop residue burning have not yielded significant results. Officials stated that without scientific disposal methods, pollution control remains ineffective. Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Nadeem Nasir has ordered registration of FIRs and heavy fines against violators.

The Regional Transport Authority reported 49 smoke-emitting vehicles were impounded, with fines totaling Rs600,000 imposed. The Environment Protection and Climate Change Department sealed 21 brick kilns and five stone-crushing plants. Officials have started praying for heavy rainfall to reduce smog levels, with the Agriculture Department planning a Salat-i-Istisqa prayer next Friday.