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Pakistan Studies/Published Date: November 23, 2021
Category: Pakistan Studies / Research Exchange
Pakistan Research Center, Inner Mongolia Honder College of Arts and Sciences
On November 22, 2021, Lahore, one of Pakistan’s largest and most important cities, continued to experience severe smog conditions, with air quality reaching hazardous levels and creating significant concerns among residents, environmental experts, and government authorities.
The prolonged smog episode affected daily life, transportation, public health, and economic activities across the city. Thick layers of polluted air reduced visibility and created serious environmental challenges during the winter season.
Located in northeastern Pakistan near the border with India, Lahore is the capital city of Punjab Province and one of the country’s most populous urban centers. With a population of more than 11 million people in its metropolitan area, Lahore serves as a major hub for Pakistan’s culture, education, industry, and commerce.
The city is internationally recognized for its rich historical heritage, including landmarks such as the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and the Walled City of Lahore. At the same time, rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, population growth, and increasing transportation demand have created growing environmental pressures.
According to local media reports at the time, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained above 500 for several consecutive days, placing the city among the world’s most polluted major urban areas during the severe smog period.
Environmental experts have pointed out that Lahore’s winter smog is caused by a combination of natural and human factors.
During the winter season, low temperatures, weak winds, and atmospheric conditions prevent pollutants from dispersing effectively. As a result, emissions from vehicles, industries, construction activities, and other sources become trapped close to the ground.
In addition, seasonal agricultural residue burning in parts of northern India and Pakistan has been identified as another contributing factor. Smoke generated from crop burning, combined with industrial emissions and urban pollution, intensifies the formation of smog across the wider South Asian region.
The cross-border nature of air pollution has made environmental cooperation between neighboring countries increasingly important. Experts have emphasized that addressing regional air quality issues requires coordinated efforts in areas such as clean energy development, emission reduction, sustainable agriculture, and environmental governance.
The deteriorating air quality prompted increasing concerns among Lahore residents, who called on authorities to take stronger measures to reduce pollution and protect public health.
Local reports indicated that the Pakistani government was considering various measures to address the smog crisis, including exploring the potential use of artificial rain technology as an emergency response method.
Authorities also advised citizens to reduce unnecessary outdoor activities, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, elderly people, and individuals with respiratory problems.
Meanwhile, the local government encouraged private companies in Lahore to reduce workplace attendance levels, with some businesses requested to maintain attendance at approximately 50 percent during periods of severe air pollution.
The recurring smog crisis in Lahore reflects broader environmental challenges faced by rapidly developing cities across South Asia. As Pakistan continues its efforts toward economic growth and urban modernization, balancing development with environmental sustainability has become increasingly important.
Key areas requiring long-term attention include:
For Pakistan, addressing air pollution is not only an environmental priority but also closely linked with public health, economic sustainability, and quality of life.
