Overview
- Lahore was placed first on real-time global pollution lists on Thursday with citywide AQI readings around 253 after earlier snapshots ranked it third at 166, reflecting shifting monitor data.
- A localized morning spike in the Barki Road area hit an AQI of 485, signaling hazardous conditions for residents in that hotspot.
- The Punjab government announced immediate steps including mandatory face masks for motorbike riders, coverings for construction sites and goods transport, water sprinkling and the use of anti-smog guns.
- Karachi ranked fourth globally with unhealthy air, while several cities reported high AQI levels including Multan at 174, Bahawalpur at 173, Gujranwala at 159 and Faisalabad at 133.
- Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb cited incoming winds from Indian cities as a contributor to the smog and advised residents to limit outdoor activity, with a slight improvement forecast between 1 pm and 5 pm.