Lahore Chokes Under a Blanket of Smog: Health Crisis Intensifies

Lahore's air pollution crisis deepens, with over 15,000 respiratory cases in a day, overwhelming hospitals. Vulnerable groups, especially children, suffer severely. Emergency measures include bans, guidelines, and closures. NASA identifies the smog as a 'calamity,' highlighting AQI spikes. Northern Pakistan's situation worsens as authorities grapple with escalating health challenges.

Lahore is currently battling a severe smog crisis that has led to over 15,000 respiratory and viral infections in a mere span of 24 hours, according to Ary News reports. Hospitals in the city are overwhelmed with cases of dry cough, breathing difficulties, pneumonia, and chest infections.

The majority of these cases are being reported at major government hospitals such as Mayo Hospital with over 4,000 patients, Jinnah Hospital with 3,500 patients, Gangaram Hospital with 3,000 patients, and the Children's Hospital with more than 2,000 patients. Health experts warn that children and those with pre-existing conditions are particularly at risk from the smog's adverse effects.

The crisis has seen the prevalence of 10 viral diseases in Lahore alone. Among the measures being taken are a three-month ban on weddings and new transport guidelines. Educational institutions have also been closed in response. NASA's MODIS satellite highlighted Lahore as the world's most polluted city, with an AQI surpassing 1,900, exacerbating the health emergency.

(With inputs from agencies.)