LAHORE: Allama Iqbal International Airport has been closed for all types of flights due to visibility dropping from zero to 50 meters amid dense fog.
Due to this disruption, not only passengers but also airline staff are in serious trouble, as the flight schedule has been completely affected, resulting in an unusual rush of passengers at the airport. According to sources, arrangements are being made to transport passengers of flights diverted to Islamabad to Lahore through alternative means or to make them stay there until the fog clears. Private airlines, including PIA have instructed passengers to confirm their flight status before coming to the airport.
On the other hand, the Motorway Police have warned that this fog is likely to continue for the next few days. Various sections of M4 (Lahore to Multan) and M5 (Multan to Sukkur) are also being closed intermittently due to low visibility. Traffic officials said the aim of closing the motorway is to avoid major accidents, as pile-ups have occurred in such situations in the past.
The situation is no different in urban areas. Long queues of vehicles are seen on Lahore’s entry and exit routes, including Babu Sabu and Thokar Niaz Baig. According to the Meteorological Department, due to lack of rain, it is a combination of dry fog and smog, which is not only making travel but also breathing difficult for citizens. The administration has advised citizens to completely avoid long journeys at night and early morning.
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