PMD warns of worsening smog across Punjab cities

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather advisory warning of an alarming increase in smog levels across Punjab’s major urban centers, citing stable meteorological conditions as a key contributing factor.

According to the PMD, the combination of industrial pollution, vehicle emissions, and stagnant weather patterns could lead to a surge in air pollution in the coming days, particularly from November through mid-December — the peak smog season.

“Stable and dry weather conditions are conducive to smog level increase in the coming days,” the Met Office said, adding that calm winds, lower temperatures, and higher humidity levels may prevent pollutants from dispersing effectively.

The advisory noted that the eastern districts of Punjab — including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, and Khanpur — were likely to experience particularly dense smog layers.

Environmental officials also noted that the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated the installation of suction hoods in factories to reduce smoke emissions during the winter smog period.

The PMD warned that worsening air quality could increase respiratory illnesses, asthma cases, and other pollution-related health problems. “Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions are at high risk,” it added.

In addition to health hazards, the advisory highlighted that reduced visibility caused by smog could result in more road accidents and disruptions to outdoor activities.