Lahore tops global list of most polluted cities again

Lahore: Air pollution has once again reached hazardous levels in the provincial capital and other major cities across the country.

According to experts, air quality in Lahore is expected to remain moderate over the next one to two days. However, pollution levels may rise during early morning and nighttime hours. The Meteorological Department has forecast that on Wednesday, between noon and 5 PM, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) will range between 120 and 145, while by late night, it may rise to between 140 and 165.

According to global data, Lahore's current AQI stands at 161, placing it in the unhealthy category. Faisalabad's AQI was recorded at around 160, Karachi at 107, Islamabad at 69, and Rawalpindi at 66. Experts note that these levels are not considered safe under international health standards.

Lahore continues to rank among the most polluted cities in the world. On Wednesday, it topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities. India’s city of Kolkata had an AQI of 158, while Delhi’s was slightly higher. Similarly, high levels were recorded in the capitals of Vietnam (Hanoi) and Nepal (Kathmandu).

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has installed an Air Quality Forecast System, which will allow for smog and pollution predictions. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) still appears to be falling short in providing real-time air quality data. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has now begun issuing air quality and smog updates alongside weather forecasts. According to the PMD, this air quality data is being shared in collaboration with the EPA.

Punjab’s senior minister Maryam Aurangzeb has urged citizens to follow precautionary measures to minimize the harmful effects of smog. She stated that environmental pollution has a direct impact on human health, the economy, and daily life, making immediate action essential.

To combat smog, the provincial government has formulated Plan A, B, and C. Vehicle inspections have been initiated, and the Environmental Protection Force has been activated across Punjab.