Chinese Anti-Smoke Cannons Activated in Lahore for First Time

Chinese Anti-Smoke Cannons Activated in Lahore for First Time

Lahore Battles Seasonal Smog with Chinese-Made Mist Cannons

As dense smog blankets Lahore, triggering red alerts, the city has deployed Chinese-made mist cannons — also called anti-smog guns — for the first time in Pakistan’s history on October 2. Serving over 10.4 million residents, these machines aim to reduce hazardous air pollution levels across the city.

Launched by the Punjab government in collaboration with a local company, the initiative involved importing specialized components from China, which were then assembled locally and mounted on mobile trucks. Fifteen units are currently active, with five more in production, and officials are considering citywide expansion if results prove effective.

The mist cannons spray fine water droplets to capture and remove toxic particles from the air. China has used similar technology since 2012 in cities such as Chongqing and Changsha, originally designed for mining and construction sites, and saw significant improvements in air quality.

Punjab Environment Protection Department officials explained that the machines use advanced mist-generating nozzles, pumps, and control systems to disperse water or anti-smog chemicals precisely. Environmentalist Majid Jahangir called them “magic smog cleaners,” noting that while they can help lower dangerous PM2.5 particles, large-scale use could put pressure on local water resources.

Similar devices are already in operation in India, where smog has long been a persistent problem. Experts say the mist cannons provide short-term relief and can effectively reduce harmful particle concentrations in heavily populated areas.