Fireworks during India’s Diwali celebrations could worsen air pollution across Pakistan’s Punjab province, particularly in Lahore and surrounding border districts. Environmental authorities have warned that smoke and pollutants from across the border may travel into Pakistan, further intensifying the ongoing smog crisis.
According to a special assessment, polluted winds from India’s Punjab could carry fireworks emissions towards Lahore within five to 13 hours. Consequently, residents in Lahore, Kasur and nearby areas may experience deteriorating air quality from Sunday night through Monday morning.
Indian Fireworks Could Increase Lahore’s Pollution Levels
The Punjab Environment Protection Department has warned that fireworks, agricultural burning and unfavourable weather conditions could combine to worsen regional air quality. Moreover, weak winds may prevent pollutants from dispersing, allowing harmful particles to remain concentrated near the ground.
Lahore’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 335 by 1pm on November 8, compared with 294 during the same period a day earlier. Satellite observations also indicated increased haze over India’s Punjab and Haryana.
Meanwhile, authorities highlighted that Amritsar lies approximately 50 kilometres from Lahore, allowing polluted air to cross the international border within hours.
Authorities Issue Warnings as Smog Threatens Punjab
The environmental department reported 2,347 crop-burning incidents in Indian Punjab by November 4. Three districts opposite Lahore and Kasur accounted for 1,081 cases, increasing concerns about cross-border pollution.
Additionally, officials recorded 459 crop-burning incidents in Pakistan’s Punjab between October 1 and November 4, marking a 28 per cent decrease compared with last year.
Authorities have deployed monitoring teams and advised residents to limit outdoor activities during severe pollution. Furthermore, vulnerable groups, including children, elderly people and individuals with respiratory conditions, should take extra precautions.
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