Is Lahore the World's Most Polluted City? Karachi Ranks Third!
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Synopsis
Lahore has once again been recognized as the world's most polluted city, with alarming air quality levels reaching hazardous thresholds. As smog blankets the city, health experts warn of severe consequences for residents. Meanwhile, Karachi ranks third in pollution, highlighting a significant public health crisis in Pakistan.
Key Takeaways
- Lahore is the world's most polluted city.
- Karachi ranks third in global pollution levels.
- Prolonged exposure to high pollution can lead to serious health issues.
- Emergency health warnings have been issued for specific areas in Lahore.
- Authorities recommend limiting outdoor activities during smog conditions.
Islamabad, Oct 28 (NationPress) Lahore in Pakistan has once again claimed the title of the most polluted city in the world as a thick layer of smog enveloped the area on Tuesday. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) peaked at 329 around 9 am (local time), according to the Swiss air quality monitor IQAir.
Earlier in the morning, Lahore's AQI had soared to 424, with levels of hazardous particulate matter (PM2.5) reaching an alarming 287. This fine particulate matter poses significant health risks, as reported by the well-known Pakistani outlet The News International.
In addition to Lahore, Karachi has also made the list of the top 10 most polluted cities globally, coming in at third place with an AQI of 174.
Experts in health are cautioning that extended exposure to such elevated pollution levels can lead to severe health complications, including heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, and chronic respiratory illnesses, according to The News International.
The severe air quality situation in Lahore is not consistent throughout the city, with various areas surpassing the ‘hazardous’ threshold. Notably, the air quality at The City School in Allama Iqbal Town recorded an AQI of 505, indicating an emergency health warning. Other locations, such as Fauji Fertilizer Pakistan and The City School Shalimar Campus, reported AQIs of 525 and 366, respectively, suggesting that millions in these neighborhoods are inhaling dangerously toxic air, as highlighted by Dawn.
In response to the smog crisis, Punjab province is on high alert. Cities like Faisalabad and Multan reported AQIs of 439 and 438 at various points throughout the day. Other major urban areas, including Bahawalpur, Gujranwala, and Sialkot, are similarly affected, underscoring a public health emergency in Punjab.
Authorities are advising residents—especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues—to limit outdoor activities, according to Dawn. The ongoing smog, coupled with vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and agricultural burning, has become an annual crisis for Lahore.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing environmental crisis impacting our beloved nation. The alarming air quality levels in Lahore and Karachi signal a dire need for immediate action from both the government and citizens. We must unite to address this public health emergency and advocate for cleaner air and sustainable practices.
NationPress
28/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current AQI of Lahore?
As of the latest reports, Lahore's AQI was recorded at 329, indicating severe pollution levels.
Why is high PM2.5 dangerous?
PM2.5 particles are tiny pollutants that can penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream, leading to serious health issues such as heart disease and lung cancer.
Which city ranks second most polluted after Lahore?
Karachi ranks third globally for pollution, with an AQI of 174.
What health precautions should residents take?
Residents, especially vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, should minimize outdoor activities and follow health guidelines issued by local authorities.
What causes the smog in Lahore?
The smog is primarily caused by vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and agricultural burning during the harvest season.
