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Giftige smog overdekt Lahore infographic
Graphic charts the AQI in Lahore over a 24-hour period.
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Vervuiling Lahore 120 keer hoger dan veilig niveau

By Ninian Carter

November 12, 2024 - Unprecedented levels of poisonous smog have infested Lahore, Pakistan, threatening the health of millions of people with tiny cancer-inducing particles known as PM2.5.

Extremely high levels of poisonous smog is infesting eastern Pakistan, threatening the health of millions of people and forcing authorities to close schools, public offices and all outdoor venues.

At the time of writing on November 12, the city of Lahore has an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 1,045 – anything above 300 is deemed hazardous to health. The previous evening the level reached 1,304.

The measure for the tiniest and most dangerous pollutant, PM2.5, is 120 times higher than safe levels set by the World Health Organisation.

When inhaled, PM2.5 can enter the bloodstream and has been linked to asthma, heart disease, lung disease, cancer, and cognitive impairment in children.

Pollution in the region worsens every winter due to multiple factors such as farmers burning agricultural waste, coal-fired power plants and vehicle exhausts. Cold, windless air also traps pollution low to the ground, rather than lifting it away like warm air does.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 12/11/2024; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Getty Images
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