Lahore’s skies are turning gray again, and not because of clouds.
As the city steps into another smog season, daily commuters are already feeling the sting in their eyes and throats.
Whether you drive to work every morning or run deliveries across town, here’s what you need to know to stay safe on the road this season.
Why Smog Is Back — and Worse Than Before
Every year from October to February, Lahore’s air quality dips sharply.
The main culprits are vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, dust from construction, and crop burning in nearby regions. Cold, windless weather traps these pollutants close to the ground, forming a thick haze.
According to the Air Quality Index (IQair) Lahore frequently ranks among the world’s most polluted cities during these months.
| AQI Range | Category | Health Implications |
| 0–50 | Good | Air quality is considered satisfactory. |
| 51–100 | Moderate | Acceptable; some pollutants may slightly affect sensitive groups. |
| 101–150 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups | May cause irritation and breathing issues for children, elderly, and those with illnesses. |
| 151–200 | Unhealthy | Everyone may begin to experience health effects. |
| 201–300 | Very Unhealthy | Health alert; serious risk of respiratory problems. |
| 301 and above | Hazardous | Emergency conditions; the entire population may be affected. |
NDMA Advisory 2025 has already warned that this year’s smog could be more persistent, with worsening traffic congestion and lower rainfall.
How Smog Impacts Daily Commutes
Here’s what most Lahore drivers can expect:
- Reduced visibility, especially during early mornings and late evenings
- Eye and throat irritation during long drives
- Slower traffic flow and occasional road closures
- Higher fuel consumption due to stop-and-go conditions
- Government-imposed restrictions on smoke-emitting and heavy vehicles
Even a short commute can become exhausting when you’re breathing polluted air and navigating through reduced visibility.
Smart Driving Tips for the Smog Season
Here’s how you can protect yourself and your car while driving through Lahore’s smog:
| Action | Why It Helps |
| Check the AQI before leaving home using apps like IQAir or NDMA’s updates. | Helps decide whether to travel and which route to take. |
| Avoid peak smog hours — early mornings (before sunrise) and late evenings. | These are the most polluted and visibility-challenged hours. |
| Keep headlights and fog lamps clean and on low beam. | Improves visibility without blinding others. |
| Switch your car’s ventilation to recirculation mode. | Keeps polluted air out of your cabin. |
| Wear an N95 or KN95 mask. | Reduces inhalation of harmful fine particles (PM2.5). |
| Get your car tuned and check for smoke emissions. | Prevents fines and reduces pollution output. |
| Drive slower and maintain extra distance. | Provides more reaction time in low visibility. |
| Clean air filters and windshields regularly. | Keeps your vision clear and air cleaner inside the car. |
(Source: NDMA Smog Safety Guidelines)
Government Measures in Place
Authorities are already implementing several measures to tackle smog:
- Fines and impoundment of unfit or smoke-emitting vehicles
- Smog guns initiative for road washing and dust control operations across the city
- Public awareness drives by Lahore Traffic Police
- Temporary school closures and remote work advisories on high-pollution days
While these initiatives help, it’s still up to drivers and commuters to take precautionary measures daily.
Quick Smog Survival Checklist
Before you leave home:
- Check AQI on IQAir or NDMA
- Keep a mask, eye drops, and a water bottle handy
- Ensure headlights, fog lights, and wipers are in top condition
- Get your engine tuned and filters cleaned
- Avoid unnecessary trips during low-visibility hours
After reaching home:
- Wash your face and hands
- Avoid keeping windows open unnecessarily
- Drink plenty of water to reduce throat dryness
Looking Ahead: What Needs to Change
Smog won’t disappear overnight, but consistent action can make a difference.
Lahore needs:
- Stricter vehicle emission testing
- Promotion of electric and hybrid vehicles
- Expanded public transport and carpool incentives
- Regulation of industrial and crop-burning emissions
Cleaner air is both an environmental issue and a public safety concern. Every responsible driver plays a part in reducing the haze that hangs over the city.
Final Word
Each tuned car, careful driver, and informed commuter brings Lahore one step closer to clearer skies.
Drive safe, stay alert, and help the city breathe easier this season.
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