Extreme air pollution: part of the Earth covered by "dirty" smog
North India and East Pakistan are enveloped in smog visible even from space. Air pollution indices in Delhi and Lahore have reached critical levels.
Photo: pixabay.com
The northern regions of India and eastern areas of Pakistan are once again facing an environmental crisis as air pollution levels have reached critical values visible even from space.
According to NASA and IQAir, the most polluted cities are currently Delhi and Lahore, with indices of 408 and 360, significantly exceeding the hazardous level of 300.
The primary cause of pollution remains the annual burning of agricultural waste coinciding with the autumn season.
The situation is further worsened by emissions from coal power plants, vehicle traffic, and unfavorable weather conditions. This year, the crisis has intensified: Lahore's index previously reached a record 1,200 units.
Hospitals are reporting a rise in cases of allergies and respiratory issues. According to Punjab authorities, over 30,000 people have required medical assistance in recent days.
Governments are implementing emergency measures: schools, markets, and parks in affected areas have been closed, and mass events canceled.
Experts urge accelerated adoption of environmentally friendly technologies and stricter control of emissions.
This crisis highlights the need for systemic changes to prevent future disasters amidst growing urbanization and climate change.
Meanwhile, the international air quality rankings of major cities named Auckland (New Zealand), Melbourne (Australia), and Madrid (Spain) as the most eco-friendly metropolises.
The assessment was conducted in real time based on the IQAir index, reflecting air pollution levels.
Auckland topped the list with an index of 11, Melbourne scored 14, and Madrid 15. The popularity of eco-programs and residents' conscious attitudes were key reasons for their success.
Earlier reports stated that in the Kyiv region, toxic substances were discovered alongside items allegedly linked to the activities of a criminal group of six individuals. They are suspected of illegally burying hazardous waste, causing land pollution and environmental damage exceeding 9.3 million hryvnias.
It was also reported that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the construction of three semiconductor manufacturing plants worth a total of $15 billion, including the country's first such facility.