Impact of the Green Lockdown and Construction Activities on Lahore's Air Quality Index (AQI) during November 2024

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of a temporary construction ban and Green Lock Down on air quality in Lahore, Pakistan. During November 2024, Lahore experienced a period of severe air pollution with AQI values consistently exceeding 400. With smog reaching critical levels in Lahore, authorities implemented a "green lockdown" around the US Embassy, designating a 1-kilometer radius as a restricted zone. Green lock down was implemented in many other areas of Lahore as well. To further mitigate the severe air pollution, all construction activities (1345 sites) were temporarily banned across the city.

Air quality data from IQAir sensors, meteorological data, and information on construction sites Green Lock Down Areas were collected and analyzed. The results did not show a significant localized improvement in air quality during the construction ban, and Green Lock Down. The Impact of construction activities is observed at street level. But at the ambient level, the impact of the ban was limited due to the continued influence of other pollution sources and the prevailing stagnant meteorological conditions.

This period was characterized by stagnant atmospheric conditions and increased pollutant emissions. A subsequent shift in weather patterns, with increased wind speeds and rainfall, played a crucial role in dispersing pollutants and significantly reducing AQI levels. This study highlights the complex interplay of various factors, including meteorological conditions, construction activities, and other pollution sources, in determining air quality in urban environments