Pakistan: Lahore Closes Schools Amid Record Air Pollution Crisis

Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city, is closing primary schools for one week due to unprecedented air pollution levels, Al Jazeera reported yesterday.

The air quality index reached over 1,000, far exceeding the “dangerous” threshold of 300. Authorities attribute the severe smog to low-grade diesel emissions, agricultural burning, and seasonal weather conditions.

Jahangir Anwar, a senior environmental official, announced the closure, emphasizing the health risks to children, who are particularly vulnerable to the toxic air. Masks will be mandatory in schools, and health monitoring for older students will be implemented.

Recent measures include banning polluting tuk-tuks and unfiltered barbecuing at restaurants. The government is also reducing staff in offices and private companies, mandating half to work from home. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to such pollution can lead to serious health issues, shortening life expectancy in Lahore by an average of 7.5 years.