Air pollution originating in India is worsening smog conditions in Lahore, upper Punjab, and several border districts of Pakistan, according to a report by Kashmir Media Service (KMS).
The report states that smoke from crop residue burning in the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana is crossing into Pakistan, contributing to hazardous air quality levels, particularly during winter.
Satellite observations have also highlighted the extent of pollution over India. NASA’s MODIS and VIIRS sensors, along with the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Sentinel satellites, have detected a persistent layer of pollution over the country.
According to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, 3,316 incidents of crop residue burning were recorded across seven Indian states between September 15 and November 1, 2026.
The report identifies stubble burning as a major contributor to seasonal air pollution, with smoke from agricultural fires reaching Pakistani border areas due to their geographical proximity. This also affects the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Punjab.
During winter, thick layers of smoke and fog regularly cover the Indo-Gangetic Plains, affecting Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Environmental experts cited in the report have criticized India for its reluctance to pursue a coordinated regional response to cross-border air pollution despite being described as the region’s largest contributor.
They also highlighted that industrial emissions, alongside seasonal crop burning, contribute to year-round air pollution in India, raising concerns about its impact on neighboring countries.
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