**Pakistani Authorities Deploy Mobile Clinics as Smog Crisis Worsens in Punjab**

MULTAN, Pakistan - Punjabi health officials have ramped up efforts to combat a severe smog crisis by deploying mobile health clinics and expanding hospital capacities. These measures come as nearly 70,000 patients with respiratory issues flood medical facilities daily, according to statements made on Wednesday.

The province of Punjab, home to 127 million people, has been suffering from unprecedented levels of pollution since October. The United Nations' children's agency recently issued a warning that 11 million children in the area are at risk due to the toxic air. On Wednesday, the province's main cities, Lahore and Multan, topped the list of the world's most polluted cities, recording hazardous air quality index (AQI) levels around 400, as per the Environmental Protection Department. An AQI rating above 300 is categorized as hazardous to health.

Experts attribute the smog to a mix of high vehicular emissions, construction and industrial activities, and the burning of crops that coincides with the onset of the winter wheat-planting season. To address the crisis, more than 200 mobile clinics have been circulating across Punjab since last week. These clinics, mounted on vehicles, aim to bring medical care to those who cannot afford it and elderly citizens who are unable to visit hospitals. Aun Abbas, a top official in the Health Department, indicated that these mobile units are equipped to perform basic laboratory tests and offer prescriptions as required.

Uzma Bukhari, a spokesperson for the Punjab provincial government, reported that over 2.1 million patients affected by the smog have already received treatment in state-run hospitals and anticipates the numbers to increase. In response to the smog, all schools in the province have been closed until November 17, and parks and museums will remain closed until November 18. Medical specialists have strongly advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel and to wear face masks.

Azam Mushtaq, a respiratory specialist at Nishtar Hospital in Multan, noted that the majority of respiratory cases are due to individuals neglecting to wear face masks. Asthma sufferers are particularly affected, struggling to breathe even with oxygen support. While face masks are mandated, many citizens ignore the rule and face fines. Traffic police are also issuing penalties to drivers whose vehicles emit smoke.

Weather forecasts suggest the possibility of light rain, which could alleviate some of the pollution. Additionally, the government is considering methods to induce artificial rainfall as a strategy to clear the smog and improve air quality.