LAHORE – The capital city of Punjab, Lahore, continues to grapple with severe air pollution, ranking as the world’s most polluted city once again.
According to the latest air quality data, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 253, placing it in the “very unhealthy” category.
Before 7 am, Lahore’s Barki Road area recorded an alarming AQI of 485, highlighting the hazardous conditions faced by residents.
Other cities in Punjab are also experiencing poor air quality, with pollution levels posing serious health risks. Globally, India’s capital New Delhi ranked second on the list of the most polluted cities, followed by Baghdad in Iraq. Karachi stood fourth with an AQI of 181, while India’s Kolkata came in fifth.
Environmental experts continue to urge immediate action to combat rising pollution levels, emphasizing the need for stricter emissions control and increased public awareness.
the Punjab government has made it mandatory for all motorbike riders to wear face masks amid worsening air pollution across the province.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said that winds from Indian cities — including Delhi, Chandigarh, Gurdaspur, Ludhiana, and Patiala — are drifting toward Lahore, aggravating the smog situation.
She added that Multan, Bahawalpur, and Bahawalnagar are also being affected by cross-border air pollution.
With Lahore now ranked as the most polluted city in the world, the government has issued fresh precautionary guidelines to minimize health risks.
Construction sites and goods transport vehicles have been instructed to remain covered, while citizens are advised to keep car windows rolled up and doors and windows at home closed to limit exposure to polluted air.
Aurangzeb said a slight improvement in air quality is expected between 1 PM and 5 PM, with clear skies and mild haze during the afternoon.
She added that anti-smog measures — including continuous water sprinkling and the use of anti-smog guns — are underway in Lahore and other major cities.
“Every citizen’s cooperation is crucial to reducing smog and ensuring cleaner air. Collective action can lead to meaningful progress and success,” she emphasized.
