Lahore Schools Close Due to Severe Smog
The Punjab government in Pakistan has decided to close primary schools in Lahore for a week due to worsening smog and poor air quality. This closure will last from November 4 to November 9, as announced by the Punjab Environment Department.
Health and Safety Concerns
Senior provincial minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized the need to prioritize the health and safety of students amid the air pollution crisis. Lahore has been facing extremely high levels of air pollution, affecting residents’ health, especially children.
Alarming Air Quality Levels
On Saturday, Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) reached 1,067, far above the dangerous level of 300. The PM2.5 pollutant levels also peaked at 610, posing severe health risks. According to WHO standards, a PM2.5 reading above 15 is unhealthy.
Contributing Factors and Measures
Aurangzeb mentioned that winds from India have contributed to the smog, highlighting the need for discussions with India. She warned that industries could face shutdowns if they do not comply with the Green Lockdown. Farmers burning crop residue will also face arrests.
Efforts to Combat Pollution
Authorities are increasing efforts against stubble burning, a major contributor to air pollution, in smog-affected districts of Punjab.
Doubts Revealed
Lahore -: Lahore is a big city in Pakistan, which is a country next to India. It’s known for its rich history and culture.
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like fog but is made of smoke and other pollutants. It can make it hard to breathe and is not good for health.
Marriyum Aurangzeb -: Marriyum Aurangzeb is a government minister in Pakistan. She is responsible for making decisions to help keep people safe and healthy.
Air Quality Index -: The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number that tells us how clean or polluted the air is. A higher number means the air is more polluted and can be harmful to health.
PM2.5 -: PM2.5 refers to tiny particles in the air that are smaller than 2.5 micrometers. They can go deep into our lungs and cause health problems.
Stubble burning -: Stubble burning is when farmers set fire to the leftover parts of crops after harvesting. This creates a lot of smoke and pollution in the air.
