The crisis has prompted a flurry of responses from local authorities, as the country grapples with its most severe air pollution event in years. According to several Pakistani media reports the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority had declared smog a “calamity” and instituted emergency measures.

Lahore records a hazardous air quality index of 1,067, topping global pollution charts. Residents suffer health issues amidst government efforts to combat smog via green lockdowns and strict regulations.