Lahore again tops air pollution index, records hazardous level
Last updated on: 10 December,2019 09:58 pm
Lahore is at the top once again with 332 US AQI.
LAHORE (Dunya News) – Air Quality Index (AQI) has once again hit an alarming number, peaking at 332 US AQI in the capital city of Punjab, Lahore.
Mian Mir area topped the chart and was recorded at 592 in the ranking. Mall Road has followed the Mian Mir area with 503 points. DHA was recorded at 497, while Gulberg witnessed 470 in AQI ranking.
Upper Mall has been recorded at 415 while Zeenat Block had the least ranking with 256 points.
WHAT IS SMOG AND ITS EFFECT?
Smog which occurs mainly because of intense air pollution can also be defined as a mixture of various gases with dust and water vapor. Smog also refers to hazy air that makes breathing difficult.
Smog can be responsible for any ailment from minor pains to deadly pulmonary diseases such as lung cancer. Smog is well known for causing irritation in the eye. It may also result in inflammation in the tissues of lungs; giving rise to pain in the chest.
Other issues or illnesses such as cold and pneumonia are also related to smog. The human body faces great difficulty in defending itself against the harmful effects of smog.
The last level of ‘hazardous’ on the AQI is shown as between 250 to 300 which necessitates the people with heart and lung diseases.
PRECAUTIONS
The EPA notes that the majority of people only need to be concerned about smog when ozone exposure reaches high levels. In order to protect yourself and your family, you need to stay informed about ozone levels in your area.
These precautions can help protect you when ozone levels are high:
• Limit your outdoor activities if ozone levels are unhealthy, as elevated ozone levels increase your chances of being affected by smog the longer you stay outside.
• Keep your activities gentler on smoggy days, as the more vigorous your activity level, the greater your chances of experiencing respiratory problems.
The best approach is to spend less time outdoors and replace vigorous activities, like running or biking, with gentler options, such as walking. Schedule your outside activities for the early morning or evening, when ozone levels are low.
These simple steps can help protect you and your family on smoggy days, whether you live in a major city or you’re just passing through.