Lahore has once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities, surpassing India’s capital, Delhi, with an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 404.
The situation has reached hazardous levels in several parts of the city. Rytgan Road recorded an AQI of 680, Johar Town reached 673, and Gulberg registered 543 all far beyond safe limits for breathing.
Experts say the worsening air quality in Punjab is mainly caused by smoke from vehicles, industrial emissions, burning of crop residue, and cross-border haze drifting from India. These factors have turned Lahore’s air thick with smog, reducing visibility and posing serious health risks to residents.
Faisalabad and Lahore are struggling with high traffic and industrial waste, while Karachi’s air pollution is mostly linked to port operations and vehicular smoke.
The twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi are also affected by ongoing construction and dust, adding to poor air quality across the region.
Health experts have advised citizens to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows and doors closed, and wear protective masks when going outside. Schools and outdoor activities are being discouraged due to the high risk of respiratory problems and allergies.
The Meteorological Department has predicted dry weather across most parts of Pakistan, which may cause smog conditions to persist in the coming days.
Meanwhile, temperatures in the northern and hilly regions are expected to drop further, but without significant rainfall, relief from the worsening air pollution seems unlikely in the near future.
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