COVID-19 and Lahore: Unmasking the Pandemic’s Effect on One of the Most Polluted Cities in the World

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound global impacts, including a noteworthy reduction in air pollution levels due to lockdown measures imposed by many governments. This study focuses on Lahore, Pakistan, a city notorious for its severe air pollution, to assess the effects of COVID-19 mitigation efforts on air quality, with implications for future policymaking.

Methods: Data on daily average PM2.5 values (in ug/m3) and the USA Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore were obtained from March 1st to May 31st, 2020, courtesy of the United States Consulate in Lahore. Comparative data for the same period in 2019 was collected from the Environment Protection Department of Pakistan. The data was categorized into two periods: pre-COVID-19 (March-May 2019) and during COVID-19 mitigation measures (March-May 2020). Statistical analysis involved a paired t-test comparing these two periods.

Results: The results demonstrate substantial changes in air quality. Between 2019 and 2020, there was a 275.0% increase in the number of days with "Moderate" PM2.5 levels (12-35 ug/m3), a 57.1% increase in the number of days with "Unhealthy for sensitive groups" PM2.5 levels (35-55 ug/m3), a 73.1% decrease in the number of days with "Unhealthy" PM2.5 levels (55-150 ug/m3), and a 100.0% decrease in the number of days with "Very unhealthy" PM2.5 levels (150-250 ug/m3). Overall, a statistically significant reduction in more severe PM2.5 pollution days and an increase in less severe pollution days were observed during COVID-19 mitigation measures.

Conclusion: In conclusion, COVID-19 mitigation efforts have led to a significant decline in PM2.5 air pollution levels in Lahore. Given the growing concerns about air quality's impact on public health, it is imperative to consider incorporating some of these lockdown measures into permanent policies that are socially acceptable, environmentally sustainable, and economically viable. This study underscores the potential for long-term improvements in air quality and public health through targeted policy actions.