By Uzma Sahar 
Experts have warned that smoke drifting from India following Diwali celebrations has begun entering several Pakistani cities, triggering fears of a sharp rise in smog and fog levels in Lahore and surrounding regions.
The cross-border pollution comes as air quality in New Delhi hit “hazardous” territory this week, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbing to an alarming 821 — one of the highest in the world. Visibility was reduced, and toxic air conditions forced health advisories across the Indian capital.
Lahore has now ranked second among the world’s most polluted cities, recording an AQI of 268. Environmental experts have declared the city’s air unsafe for human health, particularly for children, the elderly, and those suffering from respiratory and heart-related illnesses.
Mumbai and Kolkata also featured in the list of most polluted cities, with 172 and 170 particulate meters respectively.
Meteorologists say eastern winds are carrying post-Diwali smoke across the border into Punjab, worsening Pakistan’s already vulnerable winter air quality. Pollution in Lahore is expected to fluctuate between 210 and 240 AQI on Tuesday, making conditions dangerous for prolonged outdoor exposure.
According to the Meteorological Department, winds traveling from Dharamshala will pass through Gujranwala before entering Lahore and Faisalabad. Currents from Sri Ganganagar and Ludhiana are also expected to push pollutants toward Sahiwal and Burewala, while winds originating from Haryana may impact Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and Multan. Wind speed will likely remain between 3 to 6 kilometers per hour, with gradual relief expected only if weather conditions shift.
In response, the Punjab government has intensified its anti-smog operations. Joint teams from LDA, WASA, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are conducting water sprinkling and road-cleaning drives across major hotspots. Anti-smog guns have also been deployed in densely populated areas to suppress airborne pollutants.
Authorities have launched the province’s first Smog Monitoring and Control Center, equipped with modern technology to track real-time changes in air quality. The center will help improve enforcement actions and early warnings.
The provincial government has urged the public to wear masks, avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, and follow precautionary guidelines to minimize health risks. Officials also encouraged citizens to stay alert to updates as air conditions continue to evolve over the week.