As temperatures eased in Punjab, air pollution in Lahore surged, placing the provincial capital once again at the top of both provincial and global lists of the most polluted cities.

According to the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Lahore’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) rose to 368 on Thursday.

Faisalabad followed with an AQI of 355, while Gujranwala recorded 276.

Smog remained heavy across different areas of Lahore, with AQI readings reaching 569 near the Civil Secretariat, 296 on Burki Road, 262 in Defence, 217 in Allama Iqbal Town, 214 in Askari block 10, 210 in Gulberg, 200 in Model Town, 193 near Raiwind Road, and 163 along Bedian Road.

Minister blames pollution from India

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb highlighted cross-border pollution as a major factor worsening Lahore’s air quality.

She explained that pollution from Indian Punjab cities — including Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Ludhiana — is drifting into Lahore and central Punjab, creating a significant environmental challenge.

Local sources of pollution remain under control, she added, but winds from the east and southeast carry contaminated air across the border.

Temperature inversion

“During night and morning hours, slow winds lead to temperature inversion, which traps polluted air and raises the AQI,” Aurangzeb said.

She noted that wind speeds of 10-15 miles per hour during the afternoon and evening may bring temporary improvement in air quality.

The provincial government said it is closely monitoring the situation, with all relevant agencies fully mobilised.

Aurangzeb confirmed that all brick kilns across the province are now using clean technology, and the 24-hour smog control room continues operations with drones and CCTV cameras for strict surveillance.

Authorities are enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for emissions from brick kilns, industrial units, and vehicles, with fines and shutdowns imposed for violations.

Aurangzeb advised children, the elderly, and people with respiratory issues to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities until conditions improve.