Multan’s AQI remains at 1900 as thick smog blankets Pakistan

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in major Pakistani cities like Multan continues to remain poor at alarmingly high levels of over 1900 as a thick blanket of smog covers the region.

According to the news agency ANI, Lahore recorded an AQI of 760, while Multan recorded a AQI of 1914, becoming the most polluted city in the world. The city had crossed the 2000 mark on AQI on Friday, November 8.

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Heavy smog in Lahore led to widespread road closures due to poor visibility, which resulted in multiple accidents. According to ANI, at least 9 people were injured in a road collision near Kalashah Kako on GT Road, Mureed K.

Lahore High Court has ordered all markets and trade activities to remain closed ton Sunday (Nov 10), while markets have been directed close by 8 pm on the rest of the days for a week.

Watch | Pakistan Air Pollution: Air Quality Index In Multan Hovering At 1,900

Authorities failed to control the pollution levels in the cities until now while the residents also did not wear masks. However, the Punjab government is now implementing measures to control the situation and has issued a high alert.

Educational institutions and schools up to higher secondary have been closed until November 17. The government has also ordered museums and parks to remain closed till November 17.

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Pakistani cities are dealing with high levels of PM2.5 particles at 947 µg/m3, which is over 180 times as per the WHO limit. WHO recommends 24-hour average exposure should not exceed 15 µg/m3 for over 3-4 in a year. This fine particulate matter in the air can lead to harmful effects for humans and prove hazardous to health.

(With inputs from agencies)