Air pollution has sharply worsened across parts of northern India and neighboring Pakistan, as thick pre-winter smog blankets several areas, exposing millions of residents to serious health risks.
Lahore, Pakistan recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 447 on Tuesday, making it the world’s most polluted city, with PM2.5 levels reaching 60 times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual exposure guideline.
Meanwhile, New Delhi also experienced hazardous air conditions, with its AQI reaching 332, classified as “very poor” by India’s Central Pollution Control Board.
Authorities attributed the worsening pollution to colder temperatures and weak winds, which trap harmful emissions from vehicles, construction activities and agricultural waste burning near the ground.
In response, Delhi has enforced stricter pollution-control measures, including restrictions on polluting vehicles, construction activities and the use of coal and firewood in eateries, while encouraging greater use of public transportation.
The situation is expected to worsen further as India prepares to celebrate Diwali on November 8, with fireworks likely to add to the already polluted air.
(Photo Courtesy: Reuters)
