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Floods Fuel Fears: Experts Warn of Severe Smog Spell in Punjab
17 Oct
Summary
- Lahore ranked as world's most polluted city, with AQI crossing hazardous levels
- Air pollution in Punjab increased by 25% in 2024 compared to 2023
- Life expectancy in Lahore reduced by 8 years due to air pollution
As of October 17, 2025, experts are warning of a more severe spell of smog this winter in Punjab, Pakistan, due to the heavy floods that have ravaged the region in recent months. The floods across Punjab in both Pakistan and India have left behind a significant amount of silt and mud, which is now contributing to the already dire air pollution crisis.
Lahore, in particular, has been struggling with air quality issues, with the city repeatedly being ranked as the world's most polluted. Just days ago, the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 180, well above the acceptable level of 100. Alarmingly, this occurred in September, which is not even considered part of the dreaded smog season when AQI values can soar past the 1,000 mark, twice the upper cap of the hazardous range.
The situation has been deteriorating over the past year, with air pollution in Punjab increasing by 25% in 2024 compared to 2023. The average pollution level also went up by 23% during the same period. These alarming numbers have had a significant impact on the region's population, with life expectancy in Lahore reduced by 8 years due to the poor air quality.
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Environmental experts believe that the heavy floods have exacerbated the problem, as the silt and mud left behind by the receding floodwaters have contributed to the increased air pollution. The moisture in the air holds the dust particles for a longer time, leading to more smog and further deterioration of the air quality.
