Air Pollution in Lahore: Officials Warn of Possible Lockdown as Toxic Smog Sends Thousands to Hospitals

Thousands of people are having to go to hospitals due to excessive air pollution in Lahore, the capital of Pakistan's Punjab province. Doctors gave this information on Wednesday. At the same time, officials have warned that if people do not follow other instructions including wearing masks, then a complete lockdown can be imposed. This warning was given when people were seen roaming on the streets without masks. Doctors have said that most people complain of cough and burning sensation in the eyes.

Salman Kazmi, Vice President of the Pakistan Medical Association, said that thousands of people suffering from respiratory problems were treated in hospitals and clinics in the last week. He said that you can see people coughing, but still, they do not wear masks.

Lahore was the most polluted city in the world on Wednesday morning and the Air Quality Index crossed the 1,100 mark. An Air Quality Index of more than 300 is considered dangerous for health. Toxic smog has engulfed the city since last month. Senior Punjab minister Maryam Aurangzeb has advised people to wear masks to avoid a complete lockdown in the city. City officials have already announced several steps to control pollution.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) gives information about outdoor air quality and health. The higher the AQI, the higher the level of air pollution and the greater the health concerns. An AQI value of 50 or less indicates good air quality but an AQI of more than 300 indicates hazardous air quality.