World News: A dense, toxic smog has engulfed Pakistan, creating a public health crisis and halting outdoor activities. Satellite images from NASAs Worldview captured the vast gray cloud hanging over Pakistans Punjab province, highlighting the severity of the pollution. The air quality levels have reached unprecedented highs, with cities like Lahore and Multan recording alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) figures.Record-Breaking AQI Levels in Lahore and MultanLast weekend, Lahores AQI surged into the hazardous category, surpassing 600 and reaching a staggering 1,900 earlier in November. Multan also reported astonishing pollution levels, with AQI numbers crossing 2,000 on Friday. Between 8 AM and 9 AM, Multans AQI reached an astounding 2,135, indicating dangerously high concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which pose severe health risks.Government Imposes Emergency RestrictionsIn response to the deteriorating air quality, Pakistans government imposed immediate restrictions across several provinces. Effective from Monday, outdoor activities are largely banned, while shops, malls, and markets are ordered to close early. In addition, schools and colleges in heavily affected regions, including Lahore, will remain closed until at least November 17 to curb the health impact on students. Lahore, ranked the worlds most polluted city by Swiss air quality group IQAir, has been particularly hard-hit, with residents facing severe respiratory issues.Alarming Health Consequences for ResidentsCities like Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala have seen a surge in health issues due to the extreme air pollution. Residents report increased cases of respiratory diseases, throat irritation, and eye infections. Health officials note a sharp rise in cases of “pink eye” and respiratory distress, driving urgent government intervention to protect public health. In Lahore alone, air quality remained hazardous, with PM2.5 levels reaching 947 micrograms per cubic meter—a concentration 189 times higher than the WHOs safe exposure limits.Air Quality Emergency in MultanMultans pollution levels have triggered critical alerts, with AQI levels peaking at 2,135 in the morning and still remaining dangerously high at 980 by 10 PM, far above the “hazardous” threshold. The Dawn newspaper reported that the citys concentration of PM2.5 particles, harmful to lung health, has reached life-threatening levels, making it one of the most polluted areas globally.Government Urges Public Caution Amid Air CrisisAs smog visibility worsens and respiratory illnesses increase, the government urges the public to limit outdoor exposure and wear protective masks when necessary. The current pollution levels have not only disrupted daily life but have also drawn international concern over Pakistans environmental and public health crisis.
