Diwali smoke in Pakistan: Lahore’s AQI turns hazardous as pollution drifts from India
LAHORE: Diwali smoke in Pakistan has pushed Lahore’s air quality to hazardous levels as toxic fumes from massive fireworks in India drifted across the border, worsening the city’s already fragile air quality. Experts warned on Tuesday that the situation may deteriorate further over the next 48 hours if wind conditions persist.
According to environmental monitors, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in New Delhi surged to an alarming 821 after Diwali celebrations, making the Indian capital the most polluted city in the world. Lahore followed closely behind, recording an AQI of 268 and ranking as the world’s second most polluted city. Experts declared the city’s air unsafe for human health, cautioning residents to remain indoors and use masks when outdoors.
Environmental analysts reported that wind patterns from India are carrying heavy smoke from fireworks, stubble burning, and industrial emissions into Pakistan’s eastern regions. Meteorological officials said air currents from Dharamshala and Ludhiana are expected to travel through Gujranwala, Sahiwal, and Burewala, while winds from Haryana are likely to affect Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and Multan. Wind speeds are forecast to remain between 3 to 6 kilometers per hour, which could prolong the smog blanket over Punjab.
The Meteorological Department confirmed that easterly winds are contributing to rising particulate matter in Lahore and surrounding cities. “The Diwali smoke has merged with local pollution, creating a dense layer of smog that could stay for several days,” an official stated. Health experts have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure and keep windows closed during peak smog hours.
The Punjab government has launched an emergency response to combat the rising smog levels. Joint teams from the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have begun water sprinkling and road-cleaning operations to reduce dust particles. Anti-smog guns have also been deployed at key hotspots to disperse pollutants.
Authorities have urged residents to wear N95 masks, limit outdoor activities, and use air purifiers indoors. Meanwhile, the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has activated the province’s first Smog Monitoring and Control Center, which will track real-time AQI data and coordinate with environmental departments across affected districts.
Experts have warned that if cross-border smoke inflow continues, Lahore’s AQI could surpass 300, posing severe health risks, especially to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Despite these concerns, environmentalists remain hopeful that wind shifts and expected light rain by the weekend may bring some relief.
The alarming rise in Diwali smoke in Pakistan once again underscores the urgent need for a regional framework between India and Pakistan to address cross-border air pollution. Without coordinated action, experts fear that each winter could bring worsening smog, affecting millions across South Asia.
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