Authorities in Pakistan’s Punjab province have ordered schools to be completely closed until mid-November due to persistently high levels of air pollution. The decision applies to the four largest cities in the country’s most populous province.
In addition, residents across Punjab are now required to wear masks, the provincial minister said in a statement. For two weeks now, a dense blanket of smog has hung over Lahore (see video above), the capital of the province in eastern Pakistan.
Record value for measured particulate matter content
A particulate matter level of 1,067 micrograms per cubic meter was measured on Saturday, after which the value dropped to about 300 micrograms. “We never reached the 1,000 mark,” environmental protection officer Jahangir Anwar told AFP.
Last week, rickshaws, a popular mode of transport for commuters, as well as vehicles with defective engines and barbecue activities were banned. Restaurants and some factories also had to close temporarily. According to Swiss environmental company IQAir, levels in the provincial capital Lahore are “dangerously” high.
Lahore is one of the most polluted cities in the world. In addition to emissions from industry, traffic and waste burning, the burning of crop residues also contributes to poor air quality in many Pakistani cities.
Particulate matter can penetrate deep into the lungs
The small particles in fine dust in particular can penetrate very deeply into the lungs and cause damage. They can also enter the blood and in principle reach all organs. According to the Federal Environment Agency, particulate matter overall leads to more diseases and higher mortality.
The World Health Organization (WHO) considers levels of particulate matter – carcinogenic microparticles, so-called PM2.5 pollutants, that can enter the bloodstream through the lungs – of more than 10 micrograms per cubic meter to be unhealthy. The maximum limit recommended by the WHO is 15 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
