ISLAMABAD, Oct 22 (Alliance News): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of a significant rise in smog levels across major cities, due to stable weather conditions.
According to a PMD advisory, the increasing smog may disrupt outdoor activities and pose health risks to vulnerable populations because of harmful pollutants in the atmosphere.
Smog, a blend of smoke and fog, usually forms between November and mid-December. The advisory noted that industrial pollution, vehicle emissions, and favorable weather patterns are expected to intensify air pollution, posing a serious threat to public health and the environment.
Stable conditions during autumn and winter, such as limited wind, cooler temperatures, and humidity, are likely to trap pollutants, creating thick smog over cities like Lahore, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, and Faisalabad.
The advisory highlighted the risks of increased respiratory illnesses, asthma, and other pollution-related health issues, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Reduced visibility due to smog could also lead to more traffic accidents, especially in the evenings and at night, disrupting daily life.
