LAHORE: As the threat of toxic smog continues to escalate in Lahore, the Punjab government is planning to implement artificial rain as a measure to combat the worsening air pollution.
The Punjab Environment Department has announced that the artificial rain operation will be carried out on November 11 (Monday) and November 12 (Tuesday), in an effort to clear the city’s heavily polluted air.
Smog Levels in Lahore:
The air quality index (AQI) in Lahore has reached alarming levels, with an overall AQI of 509, well above the hazardous threshold. Gulberg, one of the city’s most affected areas, recorded an AQI of 812, indicating extremely poor air quality. Other areas, including Shadman (736 AQI) and Defence Phase V (712 AQI), also reported dangerously high pollution levels. Major roads such as Davis Road, Ghazi Road, and Ferozepur Road have been particularly affected by smog, making it difficult for residents to breathe and causing widespread health concerns.
Governor Urges Smog Emergency:
Meanwhile, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has called on the provincial government to implement a “smog emergency” across the region. Speaking on Thursday, he highlighted the severe health impact of the smog on the population. “People are suffering from respiratory problems due to the toxic smog, and educational and business activities are being disrupted across the province,” Khan said.
He urged the government to take immediate and effective measures to tackle the smog crisis, stressing that it was the government’s responsibility to address the challenges posed by the deteriorating air quality. “The Punjab government must act decisively to manage this issue and mitigate its adverse effects on public health,” he added.
Artificial Rain Efforts:
The planned artificial rain is part of a broader strategy to reduce smog levels and improve air quality in Lahore. By using cloud-seeding technology, the government hopes to bring down pollution levels by encouraging rainfall that can help clear the air. This intervention comes amid growing concerns over the smog’s impact on residents’ health, including increased cases of respiratory illnesses and eye irritation.
As the smog situation continues to worsen, both government officials and environmental experts are emphasizing the urgent need for sustained measures to combat pollution and safeguard public health in Punjab.
