Before the start of the new year, signs of change in the weather have started to become noticeable, with the Meteorological Department predicting rain in various areas under the influence of westerly winds. According to the organisation, there is a possibility of rain with strong winds from December 30 to January 2, which can help reduce the intensity of fog and smog.
The Meteorological Department says that this weather system will especially affect the northern and central regions, which is expected to result in a decrease in temperature and improvement in visibility. Citizens hope that the rain will reduce the smog affecting daily life to some extent.
However, the ground realities are presenting a worrying picture to the contrary. Several major cities in Punjab continue to be severely affected by air pollution. According to the global air quality report, Lahore’s Kahna No. 1 area is currently among the most polluted areas in the country, where the pollution level has reached 568.
According to the data, 487 particulate matter meters were recorded in Gujranwala, 452 in Faisalabad, 311 in Lahore and 262 in Multan. According to medical experts, this situation is especially dangerous for children, the elderly and respiratory patients.
Health experts say that due to smog, there is an increase in respiratory, eye and heart diseases. The number of patients with coughs, asthma and throat infections is increasing in hospitals, which is becoming a serious public health problem.
