NASA Images Highlights Smog Over Lahore and Delhi’s Sky

A satellite image released by NASA has captured a thick, toxic layer of smog covering eastern Pakistan and northern India, which highlights the growing pollution problem in the region. The image shows Lahore in Pakistan and New Delhi in India, both cities surrounding in a deep cloud of gray smog. Lahore, a major industrial hub of 14M people located on the border with India, often ranks as 1 of the most polluted cities globally. However, pollution levels have crossed record highs this month.

In the last week, Swiss group IQAir's live rankings showed Lahore's pollution index reaching a staggering 1165. Meanwhile, New Delhi and its neighbouring areas were recording AQI levels around 350. For reference, an Air Quality Index (AQI) below 50 is considered safe, with minimum pollution risks.

To protect the children from exposure to harmful pollution, authorities in Pakistan have closed schools in Lahore until November 17. In Multan, another populous city about 350 kilometers away, the AQI reached above 2,000 last week, according to AFP. 

In the effort to curb pollution, access to public spaces such as parks, zoos, playgrounds, and historic sites have been totally restricted, and measures have been implemented to limit pollution from vehicles and restaurants that go without filters. Moreover, Pakistan's Punjab province has set up a "smog war room," where staff from multiple departments are working to reduce stubble burning and manage the  traffic pollution.

This smog is mostly caused by a combination of industrial emissions, vehicle residue, and the burning of agricultural residue, which becomes trapped in cooler air during the winter season. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that air pollution increases the risk of strokes, heart disease, lung cancer, and other respiratory illnesses, particularly affecting children, babies, and the old people.

The main culprit pollutant, PM2.5, consists of fine particles that penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, contributing to various health issues such as asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and mental impairments in children.

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