Lahore has once again topped the global ranking of the world’s most polluted major cities as toxic smog worsens. On November 1, the provincial capital recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 420.
Meanwhile, Punjab government monitoring data showed an even higher reading of 478 at 7am. The alarming figures highlight growing concerns about air pollution and its impact on residents.
Lahore Leads Global Pollution Rankings
According to the latest global ranking, Uzbekistan’s capital Tashkent secured second place with an AQI of 196. Karachi followed in third place at 170, while Dhaka recorded 166 and New Delhi stood at 156.
However, Punjab’s monitoring data presented an equally concerning picture across the province. Gujranwala recorded the highest provincial AQI at 500, followed by Lahore at 478.
Sheikhupura registered 336, while Nankana Sahib recorded 326. Dera Ghazi Khan, Hafizabad, Jhang and Khushab also reported elevated pollution levels.
Hazardous Smog Raises Health Concerns
Several Lahore neighbourhoods experienced extremely poor air quality, with monitoring stations recording AQI readings of 500. These included Barki Road, Shahdara, Kahna Nau, Multan Road, Punjab University and Gulberg III.
Other affected locations included GT Road, Wagah Border and Egerton Road. An AQI above 300 falls within the hazardous category, posing serious health risks to the entire population.
Children, older adults, pregnant women and people with respiratory or heart conditions face greater risks. Exposure can trigger coughing, throat irritation and breathing difficulties.
Residents should avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during severe pollution. Those who must go outside should consider wearing well-fitting protective masks.
Low wind speeds also contributed to the situation by limiting pollutant dispersion. At 7am, Lahore recorded wind speeds of just 0.3 metres per second and humidity of 84 percent.
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