The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has declared smog a calamity in the province, while the provincial government has declared an emergency. This decision was made because the city of Lahore continues to hold the unfortunate title of being the world’s most polluted city with hazardous air quality. On Tuesday, Lahore recorded an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 439, well above the safe level of 50. As a result, the provincial government and PDMA have taken measures to combat the smog. The burning of crop residue has been banned, and action will be taken against vehicles and factories causing pollution. District administrations will closely monitor industries and brick kilns. Masks have been made mandatory for students at all public and private schools for one month, and a smog emergency has been declared throughout the province. The Punjab caretaker cabinet and the Lahore High Court have also discussed the issue and ordered further actions to address the situation.