Lahore: Pakistan’s cultural capital, Lahore, has once again earned the grim distinction of being the world’s most polluted city, as its Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to an alarming 332, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
This level of air pollution falls in the “hazardous” category, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children, the elderly, and those suffering from respiratory or heart diseases. The data also revealed similarly deteriorating conditions in other major cities of Punjab, indicating that the province is facing a widespread smog crisis even before the onset of winter.
Air Quality Crisis Across Punjab
Alongside Lahore’s hazardous readings, other cities are also facing dangerously high pollution levels. Faisalabad recorded an AQI of 325, Sheikhupura 311, Dera Ghazi Khan 239, Gujranwala 233, and Multan 224.
Environmental experts say that any AQI reading above 300 indicates “hazardous” air, where prolonged exposure can lead to acute respiratory issues, lung infections, eye irritation, and long-term cardiovascular diseases. “Lahore’s current air quality is comparable to being in a smoke-filled room 24 hours a day,” said one environmental scientist.
Morning Smog Turns into Health Emergency
The situation worsened early Monday morning when dense smog blanketed Lahore, reducing visibility to a few hundred meters and creating hazardous conditions for both health and transportation.
