LAHORE / MULTAN (PEN) : Smog aggravates in several parts of Punjab as Multan on Saturday recorded the highest AQI of 1,327.
According to reports, Multan’s AQI surpassed highly hazardous 2,000 mark on Friday. Several other parts of the province had readings between 500 and 1,000.
Citizens of Lahore also face health issues as it remained the second most polluted city of the world with average air pollution rate recorded at 760.
MOTORWAYS CLOSED DUE TO LOW VISIBILITY
Motorways have been closed at various points amid dense smog leading to zero visibility.
M-2 has been closed from Lahore to Kot Sarwar and M-3 from Samundri to Darkhana.
The Sukkur-Multan motorway was also closed for traffic. Similarly, the Lahore-Sialkot motorway remained engulfed with dense smog and low visibility.
LHC INTERVENTION
On Friday, the Lahore High Court ordered closure of markets in Punjab by 8pm and complete shutterdown on Sunday.
The Punjab government has taken a slew of measure to mitigate the effects of smog. It has ordered closure of museums, zoos, playgrounds and tourist spots in 18 districts of four divisions till Nov 18.
The Walled City of Lahore Authority also postponed all recreational programmes and tours till Nov 17.
DEBILITATING EFFECTS ON HEALTH
Surge in smog levels also impacted the lives of citizens with burning eyes, soar throat and breathing problems.
The Gulab Devi Hospital reported twice the number of patients with medical conditions related to eyes, nose, ears and chest.
Citizens are being advised to wear masks, eyeglasses and ensure limit outdoor exposure.
MS Dr Hamid Hassan said more than 30,000 patients affected from smog visited hospital in October compared to 14,000 patients in the corresponding month last year.
Other government hospitals also reported rush of patients having similar symptoms.
