Smoke from Indian fireworks has drifted into Pakistani cities, causing experts to warn of a significant rise in smog and fog levels across Lahore. Following Diwali celebrations, New Delhi experienced a sharp spike in air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a hazardous 821, making it the most polluted city worldwide.
Lahore was reported as the second most polluted city globally, with an AQI of 268, prompting experts to declare the air unsafe for human health. Mumbai and Kolkata ranked third and fourth, with particulate matter readings of 172 and 170 respectively. Environmental agencies predict that Lahore’s pollution levels will remain high, fluctuating between 210 and 240 AQI due to eastern winds carrying smoke from Indian fireworks into Pakistan. The Meteorological Department indicated that winds originating from Dharamshala will pass through Gujranwala towards Lahore and Faisalabad, while air currents from Ludhiana and Sri Ganganagar will affect areas including Sahiwal and Burewala, further contributing to deteriorating air quality.