Punjab govt announces artificial rain to combat record smog in Lahore

LAHORE: The Punjab government has recently announced plans to artificially rain in Lahore to tackle the severe smog levels affecting the city.

The move is scheduled for November 11 and 12, marking a proactive effort by authorities to deal with hazardous air conditions.

Lahore’s hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached 509, with Gulberg recording a staggering 812 AQI, making it the most polluted area.

Shadman and Defense Phase V also reported very high AQI levels at 736 and 712 respectively. Davis Road, Ghazi Road, and Ferozepur Road are other areas that are heavily affected by pollution.

To deal with the crisis, Punjab Governor Sardar Salim Haider Khan urged the government to declare a “smog emergency” across the province.

During his statement on Thursday, he said that people are facing serious health problems due to smog which has affected educational and business activities. He emphasized the need for strict measures and said that the government should take all possible measures to deal with the menace of smog.

Governor Khan also praised Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi while acknowledging the efforts of the provincial interim government to combat smog in 2023. “The credit goes to Mohsin Naqvi for the initiatives taken this year,” he added.

Smog poses serious health risks, with officials stressing that a long-term commitment is necessary for effective mitigation.