LAHORE: Lahore continues to be the most polluted major city in the world, according to the latest Air Quality Index (AQI) readings. On Tuesday, Lahore recorded a dangerously high AQI of 372, making it the global leader in pollution. The city has remained at the top for days, with air quality levels worsening despite authorities’ efforts to combat smog.
The pollution crisis is not limited to Lahore. India’s capital, New Delhi, ranked second in the world with an AQI of 290. In Pakistan, Faisalabad followed Lahore closely with a pollution level of 338. Other cities like Multan and Peshawar recorded AQI levels of 246 and 206, respectively, contributing to the country’s overall poor air quality.
Within Lahore, several localities saw AQI readings above 600. Areas like FF Pakistan, CRP Office, and Allama Iqbal Town recorded 629, 617, and 585, respectively. Other neighborhoods like Model Town, Lower Mall, and Ravi Road also had alarmingly high pollution levels, well above what is considered safe. These readings indicate a severe air quality crisis in the city.
The persistent smog in Lahore is caused by a mix of low-grade diesel fumes, smoke from seasonal agricultural burning, and winter cooling. This combination of pollutants has led to prolonged poor air quality, impacting the health of millions. The city’s air quality has, at times, been measured at more than 80 times higher than the acceptable limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Authorities are working on measures to control the smog, but the situation remains dire. The ongoing pollution has sparked urgent calls for stronger action to tackle the crisis. Until then, Lahore’s residents continue to face the dangerous consequences of one of the most polluted air environments in the world.
