Punjab’s Air Quality Emergency | Record Pollution Levels in Multan & Lahore | Smart Lockdown Imposed

Punjab is facing an air quality emergency, with pollution levels soaring to hazardous highs. In Multan, the Air Quality Index (AQI) recently surged past 2,000, while Lahore’s readings have repeatedly topped 1,000, far above safe limits. The intense concentration of harmful particulate matter has forced the provincial government to enforce a ‘smart lockdown,’ closing schools, parks, and museums until November 17. Dense smog has blanketed cities, creating visibility issues that disrupt daily life and make travel increasingly challenging. Officials have attributed much of the pollution to cross-border factors, citing emissions from India as a primary contributor. Urgent action is needed to protect public health and restore safer living conditions across the region