Lahore Ranked World’s Most Polluted City Again

Lahore’s air quality reached hazardous levels on Wednesday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 581. This placed the city first in the world for air pollution. India’s capital, New Delhi, ranked second with an AQI of 253. Smog also affected several other cities across Punjab, raising serious health concerns.

In Punjab, Faisalabad led with the highest pollution level of 761 AQI, followed by Lahore at 581 and Multan at 460. The smog in these cities has worsened with the onset of winter. Low temperatures and seasonal agricultural burning have contributed to the rising pollution.

Air pollution in Lahore is mainly caused by low-grade diesel fumes, industrial emissions, and smoke from burning crops. The toxic mix of fog and pollutants has created thick smog layers across the city. Visibility has fallen, and respiratory issues have increased among residents.

Last year, authorities attempted to control pollution by closing schools and limiting business hours. These measures aimed to protect the public from the health effects of extreme air pollution. Despite efforts, Lahore’s pollution remains dangerously high.

The World Health Organization considers safe air levels far below Lahore’s current readings. Experts warn that prolonged exposure could cause serious health problems, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter environmental policies.

Read More : Lahore Becomes World’s Second Most Polluted City as Smog Intensifies

The air quality in Punjab’s provincial capital has deteriorated to alarming levels, placing Lahore as the world’s second most polluted city, according to recent air quality index (AQI) rankings.

Reports indicate that Lahore ranked first just a day earlier, while India’s New Delhi has now taken the top spot. Environmental authorities have warned that pollution levels in Lahore are rising due to winds blowing from the east, worsening smog conditions, particularly during the evening hours.

The Environment Department has urged citizens to stay indoors unless necessary, wear protective masks, use air purifiers, keep windows closed, and avoid outdoor exercise to minimize health risks.